IODINE
WHY YOU NEED IT
WHY YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT IT
5th Edition
Autoimmune Disease I Cancer I Detoxification I Fatigue I Thyroid Disease
David Brownstein, M.D.
• NATIONAL BEST SELLER •
New Edition • 3 New Chapters
IODINE
WHY YOU NEED IT
WHY YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT IT
5th Edition
David Brownstein, M.D.
For further copies of Iodine: Why You Need It. Why You Can’t Live Without It. 5 — Edition
Call: 1-888-647-5616 or send a check or money order in the amount of: $23.00 ($18.00 plus $5.00
shipping and handling) or for Michigan residents $24.08 ($18.00 plus $5.00 shipping and handling, plus
$1.08 sales tax) to:
Medical Alternatives Press
4173 Fieldbrook
West Bloomfield, Michigan 48323
Iodine: Why You Need It. Why You Can’t Live Without It 5 — Edition
Copyright © 2014 by David Brownstein, M.D.
All Rights Reserved
No part of this book may be reproduced without written consent from the publisher.
ISBN: 978-0-9660882-3-6
Medical Alternatives Press
4173 Fieldbrook
West Bloomfield, Michigan 48323
(248) 851-3372
(888) 647-5616
Acknowledgements
I gratefully acknowledge the help I have received from my friends and colleagues in putting this
book together. This book could not have been published without help from the editors—my wife Allison,
Dr. Guy Abraham, Stephanie Buist, Dr. Robert Radtke, Dawn Malott, and Janet Darnell. To Hailey
Brownstein, thanks for the tide pages!
I would also like to thank my patients. It is your search for safe and effective natural treatments that
is the driving force behind holistic medicine. You have accompanied me down this path and I appreciate
each and every one of you.
And, to my staff. Thank you so very much for taking this trip with me. Without your help and support,
none of this would be possible. I do appreciate all of your hard work and your dedication.
A Word of Caution to the Reader
The information presented in this book is based on the training and professional experience of the
author. The treatments recommended in this book should not be undertaken without first consulting a
physician. Proper laboratory and clinical monitoring is essential to achieving the goals of finding safe and
natural treatments. This book was written for informational and educational purposes only. It is not
intended to be used as medical advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
David Brownstein, M.D. is a Board-Certified family physician who utilizes the best of conventional and
alternative therapies. He is the Medical Director for the Center for Holistic Medicine in West
Bloomfield, MI. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Wayne State University School of
Medicine. Dr. Brownstein is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American
College for the Advancement in Medicine. He is the father of two beautiful girls, Hailey and Jessica and
is a retired soccer coach. Dr. Brownstein has lectured internationally about his success using natural
items. Dr. Brownstein has authored eleven books: Iodine: Why You Need It. Why You Can’t Live
Without It 5 — Edition: Vitamin B12 for Health: Drugs That Don’t Work and Natural Therapies
That Do. 2 — Edition: The Miracle of Natural Hormones 3 — Edition: Overcoming Thyroid Disorders
3— Edition: Overcoming Arthritis: Salt Your Way to Health . 2 — Edition: The Guide To Healthy
Eating . 2 — Edition: The Guide to a Gluten-Free Diet 2 — Edition: The Guide to a Dairy-Free Diet:
and The Soy Deception.
Dr. Brownstein’s office is located at:
Center for Holistic Medicine
5821 W. Maple Rd.
Ste. 192
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
248.851.1600
www.drbrownstein.com
www.centerforholisticmedicine.com
Contents
Preface
Foreword
Chapter 1: Introduction to Iodine
Chapter 2: Iodine Deficiency and Iodized Salt
Chapter 3: Different Forms of Iodine
Chapter 4: Iodine and the Thyroid Gland
Chapter 5: The Oxidation and Organification of Iodine
Chapter 6: Iodine and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease
Chapter 7: The Selenium/Iodine Connection
Chapter 8: Iodine. Breast Cancer, and Fibrocystic Breast Disease
Chapter 9: The Importance of Iodine Before Pregnancy
Chapter 10: Children. ADHD. Autism, and Iodine
Chapter 11: Toxic Halides: Bromide and Fluoride
Chapter 12: Detoxification Questions and Answers
Chapter 13: Iodine Dosage Guidelines
Chapter 14: Case Histories
Chapter 15: Questions and Answers
Chapter 16: Final Thoughts: Overcoming Medical Iodophobia
A ppendix
Index
DEDICATION
To the women of my life: Allison, Hailey, and Jessica, with all my love
To physicians not satisfied with the dogma who are willing to search for a new paradigm that
promotes health.
To my staff: Thanks so much for all of your help and encouragement. I appreciate all of your
hard work.
And, to my patients. Thank you for being interested in what I am interested in.
Last, but certainly not least. I dedicate this book to my mentor on iodine: Dr. Guy Abraham.
PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION
Of all the elements known so far to be essential for human health, iodine is the most misunderstood
and the most feared. Yet iodine is the safest of all the essential trace elements, being the only one that can
be administered safely for long periods of time to large numbers of patients in daily amounts as high as
100,000 times the RDA. However, this safety record only applies to inorganic nonradioactive forms of
iodine. Based on a review of the literature, both forms, iodine and iodide, are needed for optimal function
of every organ and cell of the human body.-
Some organic iodine-containing drugs, such as amiodarone, are extremely toxic and prescribed by
physicians. The severe side effects of these drugs are blamed on inorganic iodine although studies have
clearly demonstrated that it is the whole molecule that is toxic, not the iodine released from it. A case in
point: the thyroid hormones are organic iodine-containing substances. Not a single physician has
attributed the effects of thyroid hormones to inorganic iodine. Why not? They are basically the same forms
of iodine covalently bound to an organic molecule. This author believes that this inconsistency of
doublethink is most likely due to decreased cognition caused by iodine deficiency. Medical iodophobia
may have caused more human misery and death than both world wars combined by preventing meaningful
clinical research in the daily amount of iodine needed for optimal physical and mental health 2 .
It is of interest that the recommended daily amount of iodine for supplementation by clinicians of
previous generations, that is 12.5-37.5 mg in the form of Lugol’s solution, turns out to be the exact range
of intake for sufficiency of the whole human body, based on a recendy developed loading test.
Iodine/iodide in the proper amounts resulted in increased urinary excretion of heavy metals such as lead
and mercury; and had a detoxifying effect by increasing excretion of the toxic halides fluoride and
bromide.- It is time to wake up and realize that we are sitting on the shoulders of the giants of past
generations who have given us useful information, which we have discarded in favor of preconceived
ideas by self-appointed experts.
This book by Dr. David Brownstein is a welcome departure horn the past and a fresh look at facts
only, discarding myths and unfounded concerns about inorganic nonradioactive iodine/iodide. Patients
will be grateful to Dr. Brownstein for bringing to light a simple, safe, inexpensive way of healing many
medical conditions.
The ultimate Healer is the Creator of heaven and earth. His guidance has been felt constandy during
this project by this author. May He bless and guide Dr. Brownstein and his patients.
“I the LORD am your healer.”
(Exodus 15:26)
Guy E. Abraham, M.D., FACN.
- Abraham, G.E., Flechas, J.D., Hakala, J.C., Orthoiodosupplementation: Iodine sufficiency of the whole
human body. The Original Internist, 9:30-41, 2002.
- Abraham, G.E., The Wolff-Chaikoff Effect of Increasing Iodide Intake on the Thyroid. Townsend Letter,
245:100-101, 2003.
- Abraham, G.E. The safe and effective implementation or orthoiodosupplementation in medical practice.
The Original Internist, April 2004 (In press).
- Abraham, G.E., Iodine Supplementation Markedly Increases Urinary Excretion of Fluoride and
Bromide. Townsend Letter, 238:108-109, 2003
Preface to the Fourth Edition
(Author’s note: Dr. Abraham died before I began working on the 5 th Edition of this book. He was
gracious to write a new Preface for each edition. I am including the last Preface that he wrote for me.)
Less than five years ago, David Brownstein, M.D. introduced to the medical community and to
consumers, his book on the essential element iodine, describing his experience with the
orthoiodosupplementation program and the iodine/iodide loading test. - This test is simple,
straightforward, and practical.
Since then, he has crisscrossed the continental U.S.A. from East to West and North to South,
lecturing on his experience with inorganic non-radioactive iodine to physicians, other healthcare
professionals and consumers. Due mainly to his persistent efforts, reassuring healthcare professionals that
inorganic non-radioactive iodine is safe and effective, there are now thousands of physicians and other
healthcare professionals using the iodine/iodide loading test and implementing orthoiodosupplementation
safely and successfully in their practices. After trying orthoiodosupplementation on themselves and their
loved ones, they became confident that medical iodophobia was not justified for the inorganic, non¬
radioactive forms of this essential nutrient.
The number of publications presenting new research data on the orthoiodosupplementation program
has increased markedly in this short time. As of December 2008, 23 manuscripts have been published. Dr.
Brownstein is the sole author or coauthor in five of these publications. These publications are available
on our website at Optimox.com . under Iodine Research.
Dr. Brownstein and I coauthored a publication, reporting the positive effect of vitamin C at 3000
mg/day on a defective cellular transport system for iodine, emphasizing the importance of a complete
nutritional program for best results with orthoiodosupplementation^ In collaboration with Drs.
Brownstein and Flechas, I recently published a procedure for assessing the saliva/serum ratio of
inorganic iodide as an index of the efficiency of the iodine/iodide symporter system- We have established
normal values and have demonstrated a negative effect of elevated serum bromide on this ratio, suggesting
that bromide interferes with cellular uptake of iodide. Iodine intake in daily amounts from 50 to 75mg
iodine in the form of Lugol’s tablet (Iodoral®) had a positive effect on the saliva/serum iodide ratio and
decreased serum bromide.
Abnormalities in the cellular uptake of iodine were reported in breast cancer patients with elevated
bromide levels.- Organification defects in the utilization of cellular iodide were reported in a subject
with fibromyalgia.- Iodine alone at lOOmg/day markedly improved the symptom scores. The addition of
high dose vitamin B2 and B3 further improved the overall well-being in FM patients.-
The iodine project is now eight years old and strong, but not without enemies. Continued research
and publications, education of physicians and consumers, and more widespread utilization of the
orthoiodosupplementation program are the most effective ways to fight iodophobic bioterrorism and
medical iodophobia.
The future of the essential element iodine in medical practice looks very promising. We are
rediscovering what our medical predecessors already knew. To quote Nobel Laureate Albert Szent-
Gyorgyi-: “When I was a medical student, iodine in the form of KI was the universal medicine. Nobody
knew what it did, but it did something and did something good. We students used to sum up the situation in
this little rhyme.. .If ye don’t know where, what, and why; prescribe ye then K and I... Our medical
predecessors, possessing very few and crude instruments only, had to make use of two given by nature
(the use of which has since gone out of fashion): eyes and brains. They were keen observers and the
universal application of iodide might have been not without foundation.”
May the most-high God, Creator of heaven and earth, continue to guide us and bring to light what
was kept in darkness for over 60 years—the safe and effective use of the essential element iodine in the
medical practice.
Guy E. Abraham, M.D., FACN.
- Brownstein, D., Iodine: Why You Need It. Why You Can’t Live Without It, Medical Alternatives Press,
West Bloomfield, MI 2004
Abraham, G and Brownstein, D. Evidence that the administration of Vitamin C improves a defective
cellular transport mechanism for iodine: A case report. The original Internist. 12 (3): 125-130, 2005
- Abraham, G., Flechas, J., Evidence of defective cellular oxidation and organification of iodide in a
female with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue; The Original Internist. \bl 14: 2: 77-82. 2007
- Abraham, G., Flechas, J. Evidence of defective cellular oxidation and organification of iodide in a
female with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. The Original Internist. Vo\. 14:2:77-82. 2007
- Abraham, G., et al. IBID. The Original Internist. \fol. 142:77-82. 2007.
- Abraham, G., and J.D. Flechas, MD, The Effect of Daily Ingestion of 100 mg Iodine Combined with
High Doses of Vitamins B2 and B3 (ATP Cofactors) in Five Subjects with Fibromyalgia The Original
Internist, Vbl. 15, No. 1, 8-15, March 2008
- Szent-Gyorgyi, Bioenergetics Academic Press, NY. 1957
FOREWORD to the I s1 Edition
Practicing holistic medicine for over 10 years has brought me into contact with many wonderful
teachers. From these people I have learned a tremendous amount about how to use safe and natural
remedies to promote true healing in the body while not relying on foreign substances (i.e., drugs) that
simply treat the symptoms of illness and do little for treatment of the underlying cause of illness.
There are many physicians that I have learned from Some of these wonderful physicians who have
researched and educated others about their successes in using natural items to promote true healing
include: Jonathan Wright, Majid Ali, Broda Barnes and William Jeffries. There are many more.
I would like to add one more name to that list. His name is Guy Abraham, M.D. Dr. Abraham has
been researching the benefits of iodine therapy for 6 years. He studied the effects of iodine and looked at
the research on iodine therapy. Dr. Abraham has written numerous articles about the misinformation on
iodine and how this misinformation has contributed to the poor health of many of us.
While reading the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients (May, 2003), I read a letter to the
editor that was titled, “Iodine Supplementation Markedly Increases Urinary Excretion of Fluoride and
Bromide”. I was intrigued. I knew of the deficiency of iodine and the consequences of this deficiency. I
was also aware of certain toxic items (i.e., fluoride and bromide) in our diets that not only inhibited
iodine utilization in the body but also accentuated iodine deficiency. After reading Dr. Abraham’s letter, I
phoned him
I expressed my interest in iodine testing and treatment and Dr. Abraham began to educate me about
how to test for iodine and how to properly use iodine. Since that time, I have tested hundreds of patients
and found a significant percentage (>90%) exhibit laboratory and clinical signs of iodine deficiency.
Treatment with the correct amount and correct form of iodine has greatiy contributed to the good health of
many of these patients.
Dr. Abraham and I have been collaborating for many months now. He is one physician (amongst
many) who is not afraid to stand up and report what he thinks is true, even if it does not sit well with the
establishment. But, Dr. Abraham uses good science to backup his claims. After pulling hundreds of
research articles to educate myself, I realized that Dr. Abraham’s view of iodine deficiency was 100%
correct.
This book certainly would not have been written without the help and research of Dr. Abraham I
have learned a tremendous amount from Dr. Abraham and I can’t thank him enough.
Oj /fct~ ^
David Brownstein, M.D.
April, 2004
Foreword to 5 th Edition
It has now been ten years since I began working with my mentor on iodine—Dr. Guy Abraham Dr.
Abraham died in February, 2013.1 will miss him terribly.
Dr. Abraham was one of the most brilliant physician/scientists that I have known. He was an
interesting man who started his career as a researcher developing testing methods for measuring hormone
levels. Dr. Abraham’s early research, dating back to the 1950’s, is still used today in testing steroidal
hormone levels.
His interest in iodine came about in his quest to search for safe and natural therapies that would help
people achieve their optimal health. When Dr. Abraham began researching iodine, he was amazed that
there was no accurate testing to measure the body’s iodine status. Over the course of a few years, Dr.
Abraham developed the 24-hour iodine loading test.
Dr. Abraham reported on his discovery in the Townsend Letter for Doctor’s and Patients (May,
2003). I read a letter to the editor that was tided, “Iodine Supplementation Markedly Increases Urinary
Excretion of Fluoride and Bromide.” I was intrigued. At that time, I knew of the deficiency of iodine and
the consequences of this deficiency. At this time, I was frustrated because the iodine I was using (iodide
versions) was not helping my patients. It was not harming anyone, but no one was getting better by using
it.
After reading Dr. Abraham’s letter, I phoned him. I expressed my interest in learning about his new
test. After an extended time period (Dr. Abraham takes some time before he “warms” up to someone) we
started developing a relationship. Over the next ten years, Dr. Abraham taught me more than he will know
about iodine, how to test for it and how to treat deficiencies of it.
I would fly to California a few times per year to work/study in Dr. Abraham’s lab. Those trips were
the most intellectually stimulating times I have had during my adult life. Dr. Abraham taught me to
critically evaluate medical research. During our visits, we would always have biochemistry books out
and we spent many hours discussing the biochemical pathways of the body. I will miss him and those
times terribly.
But, I will continue to carry on his work. We all learn from our predecessors. I learned from one of
the greatest. Dr. Abraham, you will be missed, but your work has advanced medicine and, more
importantly, has helped untold numbers of patients.
The iodine story is not complete. Our continuing exposure to increased amounts of toxic halogens—
bromide, fluoride, and chlorine derivatives—necessitates that we all ensure that our iodine levels are
optimal. We are suffering from a plethora of illnesses all related to iodine deficiency including: cancer of
the breast, thyroid, ovary, uterus, and prostate, as well as autoimmune thyroid illnesses, hypothyroidism,
fibrocystic breast disease, ADHD, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia. All of these conditions can be
related to iodine deficiency.
This book was written to educate you about iodine. Ensuring that you and your family ingest
adequate amounts of iodine can make the difference between living a healthy life or a life troubled with
medical issues. Iodine is truly an amazing essential nutrient. I am honored to write about it.
TO ALL OF OUR HEALTH!!
David Brownstein, M.D.
January, 2004
Chapter 1
Introduction to Iodine
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO IODINE
Steven, a 55-year-old photographer, complained of losing his creative abilities. “I can’t see the
pictures like I used to. In fact, I have no motivation to even work. I feel like I am in a fog,” he claimed.
Steven was diagnosed with depression three years earlier and treated with antidepressant medications.
Although he felt some improvement from the antidepressant medications, he found that he was having
difficulty being productive at work. “My business was going down the tubes. Clients were leaving me
left and right,” he claimed. When I saw Steven, he had many of the signs of hypothyroidism including
poor eyebrow growth, slow reflexes, puffiness under his eyes, and very dry skin. Steven’s blood tests
showed low-normal thyroid function tests and a very low basal body temperature (96.6 degrees
Fahrenheit—normal 97.8-98.2 degrees Fahrenheit). Steven’s iodine-loading test showed a low iodine
level at 23% excretion (normal: >90% excretion. The iodine-loading test will be explained in Chapter
2). He was initially treated with 50mg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). His blood and hair tests
revealed nutritional deficiencies that were contributing to his problems. He was prescribed a
combination of vitamins, minerals, and unrefined salt (Celtic Sea Salt®), in addition to the iodine. At a
two-month follow-up visit, he reported, “I am so much better. It is like night and day. My creative level
is tremendously improved. I can now see things at work. You either have the eye for photography or
you don’t. Now I have it again. I feel like I am 20 years old. At work, my phone won’t stop ringing. The
only bad thing is that I am getting too busy. ”
Update (2 nd Edition) on Steven’s case: Steven has been taking 50mg/day of iodine for two years.
His recent iodine loading test has improved to 85% excretion (normal >90% excretion).
New 5 th Edition Update: Steven’s iodine loading test now is normal (>95% excretion). He
recently reported, “I feel great. The iodine has truly changed my life and changed it for the better. I am
grateful to feel this good. ”
Steven’s story is not unique. The human body is a wonderful thing. If you give it the proper nutrients,
it can perform optimally. Conversely, when the raw materials (vitamins, minerals, hormones, enzymes,
amino acids, etc.) are lacking or imbalanced, it sets the stage for poor health and the onset of disease. At
the present time, iodine deficiency is occurring in epidemic proportions. This book will explore the
causes and treatment of iodine deficiency.
WHAT DOES IODINE DO?
For over 100 years, iodine has been known as the element that is necessary for thyroid hormone
production. However, it is rare to see any further mention of iodine’s other effects in the body. Iodine is
found in each of the trillions of cells in the body. Without adequate iodine levels, life itself is not
possible.
Iodine is not only necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, it is also responsible for the
production of all of the other hormones in the body. Adequate iodine levels are necessary for proper
immune system function. Iodine contains potent antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiviral, and anticancer
properties. Iodine is also effective for treating fibrocystic breasts and ovarian cysts. Table 1 (page_26)
lists some of the many benefits of iodine and some of the conditions that would benefit from adequate
iodine supplementation. This book will review the many therapeutic aspects of iodine.
Approximately 1.5 billion people, about one-third of the earth’s population, live in an area of iodine
deficiency as defined by the World Health Organization. Iodine deficiency disorder can result in mental
retardation, goiter, increased child and infant mortality, infertility, and socioeconomic decline.- Iodine
deficiency disorder is the most common preventable form of mental retardation known.
Table 1: Therapeutic Actions of Iodine and Conditions Iodine Can Treat
Therapeutic Actions
Antibacterial
Anticancer
Antiparasitic
Antiviral
Elevates pH
Mucolytic Agent
Conditions Treated With Iodine
ADD ADHD
Atherosclerosis
Breast Diseases
Dupuytren s Contracture
Excess Mucous Production
Fatigue
Fibrocystic Breasts
Goiter
Hemorrhoids
Headaches and Migraine Headaches
Hypertension
Infections
Keloids
Liver Diseases
Nephrotic Syndrome
Chan an Disease
Parotid Duct Stones
Peyronies
Prostate Disorders
Sebaceous Cysts
Thyroid Disorders
Vaginal Infections
=1
Iodine is a relatively rare element, ranking 62 nd in abundance of the elements of the earth. Iodine is
primarily found in seawater in very small quantities and solid rocks (usually near the ocean) that form
when seawater evaporates. Iodine can also be found in sea organisms, such as seaweed. In fact, seaweed
is one of the most abundant sources of iodine because seaweed has the ability to concentrate a large
amount of iodine horn the ocean water.
Iodine is not very abundant in the earth’s crust. It is estimated to be about 0.3-0.5 parts per million.
In fact, it is in the bottom third of the elements in terms of abundance. 2
If the soil has adequate iodine levels, the crops grown on that soil will contain adequate iodine
levels. Conversely, deficient iodine levels will be found in crops grown on iodine-deficient soil.
There are naturally occurring non-radioactive and radioactive forms of iodine. Radioactive iodine
can be used in medicine to diagnose and treat certain illnesses, particularly illnesses of the thyroid gland.
Commercially available non-radioactive iodine primarily comes from several sources: Chilean
saltpeter, seaweed, and brine water in oil wells. The action of the waves from the ocean can make iodine
gas. Once airborne, iodine can combine with water or air and enter the soil. Non-radioactive iodine can
enter our food system in a variety of ways. First, plants can take up iodine from the soil. Second, airborne
iodine can land on fresh water supplies and, finally, airborne iodine can land on the ground, combine with
salt, and become iodized salt.
Radioactive iodine can enter the air from reactions in nuclear power plants or explosions of nuclear
materials. Radioactive iodine has been associated with certain types of cancer including thyroid cancer
and certain blood cancers. Children are more susceptible to radioactive iodine since they have smaller
thyroid glands, and they will receive a proportionately larger radioactive dose than an adult when they
are exposed to radioactive iodine. Radioactive iodine damage can be prevented by the ingestion of non¬
radioactive inorganic iodine.
The meltdown of the Fukushima nuclear reactor in Japan should give us all pause. It is best to ensure
iodine sufficiency-for both health and safety issues. If we are ever confronted with a Fukushima-like
event, iodine sufficiency would be a protective factor minimizing problems with radioactive iodine
exposure.
WHERE IS IODINE FOUND IN THE BODY?
Every cell in the body contains and utilizes iodine. Iodine is concentrated in the glandular system of
the body. The thyroid gland contains a higher concentration of iodine than any other organ of the body.
Large amounts of iodine are also stored in many other areas of the body including the salivary glands,
cerebrospinal fluid and the brain-, gastric mucosa, choroid plexus, breasts, ovaries, and the ciliary body
of the eye. In the brain, iodine concentrates in the substantia nigra, an area of the brain that has been
associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Iodine is essential for the normal growth and development of children. Severe iodine deficiency can
result in severe mental deficiency and deafness (i.e., goiter). In addition, spontaneous abortion, as well as
delayed physical and intellectual development is associated with iodine deficiency. Attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also related to iodine deficiency (see Chapter 10 ).
Conversely, too much iodine can be a problem. In rare cases, excess iodine (i.e., doses greater than
lgram/day) has been associated with hyperthyroid symptoms.
HISTORY OF IODINE
Bernard Courtois first discovered iodine in 1811 during the course of making gunpowder.- He was
making compounds of potassium and sodium from seaweed. When he accidentally added too much
sulphuric acid to the mixture, he observed purple vapors arising from it. Due to its purple color, the new
element was named iodine (iodes in Greek means violet). -
The first medical use of iodine was reported by Jean Francois Coindet (1774-1834), who showed
that goiter (i.e., swelling of the thyroid) could be treated with iodine. The use of iodine in treating goiter
was the first time that a single item (iodine) was used to treat a specific illness (goiter). Some cite this
discovery as the birth of western medicine.
Jean-Baptiste Boussingault (1802-1887) verified the work of Coindet in 1824. Boussingault
observed that goiter did not occur at many silver mining sites. His experiments showed conclusively that
iodine in the water at these mining sites prevented goiter in people who drank the water. His
recommendation at the time was that goiter could be prevented by having people eat the iodine-containing
salt from these mines. Unfortunately, it took the United States nearly 100 years to implement the findings
of Boussingault. During this time period, untold numbers of Americans suffered from the ravages of
iodine deficiency and goiter.
MICHIGAN/OHIO STUDIES
In the early 1900’s there was a high prevalence of goiter in the states bordering the Great Lakes. Due
to the earlier work of Boussingault and Coindet, it was hypothesized that adding iodine to the diet of
people in the Great Lakes area would decrease the incidence of goiter. In 1923-1924, the State of
Michigan’s Department of Health conducted a large-scale survey of goiter in four counties. Of 66,000
school children examined, nearly 40% had enlargement of the thyroid gland (i.e., goiter).- - - In 1924,
iodized salt was introduced to the area. By 1928, there was a 75% reduction of goiter observed and by
1951, less than 0.5% of school-age children had a goiter. Research also showed a greater reduction in
goiter among regular users of iodized salt as compared to non-users.
David Marine conducted the first large-scale study on using iodine as a therapy to reduce goiter. In
the early 1900’s, he looked at the positive effects of iodine supplementation for decreasing goiter in farm
animals. From the results in animals, Marine estimated the amount of iodine necessary to treat humans.
Dr. Marine chose Akron, Ohio as the test area for iodine supplementation. Akron, Ohio was chosen
due to the high rate of goiter—56% of school-aged girls had goiter in Akron. 9 There was a 600% increase
in goiter in adolescent girls versus boys.— The reason for this increase was due to the increased iodine
requirements in pubertal girls as compared to boys. The first glandular tissue to grow at puberty is the
breasts, which require significant amounts of iodine. Dr. Marine studied two groups of students:
1. A control group of 2305 students where no iodine was given.
2. A treatment group of 2190 students who were given 9mg/day of sodium iodide (averaged daily)
for 2.5 years. This dose of iodine is nearly lOOx the present RDA for iodine.
The results are shown in Figure 1 . The control group (no iodine) showed a 22% incidence of goiter.
The treatment group had a significandy lowered 0.2% incidence of goiter.
Figure 1: Dr. Marine’s Iodine Test
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
Control Group Treatment Group
□ Subjects
□ Goiter
Due to the positive results from using iodized salt in Michigan and Ohio, the rest of the United States
quickly adopted the policy of adding iodine to salt, thus decreasing the goiter rate throughout the country.
Today, the World Health Organization actively promotes the use of iodized salt to help prevent goiter
throughout the world.
HOW DO YOU INGEST IODINE?
Iodine, unlike vitamins and minerals, is not present in adequate amounts in most foods. Specific
plants absorb iodine when it is present in the soil. Iodine is found in many ocean foods, such as fish (cod,
sea bass, haddock, and perch) and sea vegetables (seaweed). Iodine can also be found in many other food
products either by adding iodine to animal feed or by adding iodine to the food source.
Iodine has also been added to salt products (i.e., iodized salt). The U.S. government determined that
the most cost-effective way to prevent goiter of the thyroid gland was to add iodine to the salt supply.
Ingesting iodine through the use of iodized salt costs pennies per day. Although the addition of iodine to
the salt supply has lessened the prevalence of goiter, it is inadequate to supply the body’s need for iodine.
This will be more fully explained in Chapter 2 .
HOW MUCH IODINE IS IN SALT?
Iodine is added to table salt at lOOppm as potassium iodide, which amounts to 77ug iodine/gram of
salt. Estimates are that less than 50% of the U.S. population uses iodized table salt. - However, that
estimate is probably high due to the prevalence of low-salt diets and low-salt food products. I believe the
number of Americans using iodized salt is well-below 50%, probably around the 30% level. Chapter 2
will explore this topic in more detail.
The amount of iodine in food varies. Seafood, multiple vitamins, and many farm products may
contain iodine. Dairy products, eggs, and meat may contain iodine if iodine is properly added to the feed
of animals. Table 2 lists the iodine content of many different food sources. However, iodine was removed
from many food products in the 1980’s and these estimates may not be valid today.
Table 2: Iodine Content in Selected Food Items in the United States
Food
pg/iodine/serving
Ready-to-eat cereals
87
Dairy-based desserts
70
Fish
57
Milk
56
Overall dairy products
49
Eggs
27
Bread
27
Beans, peas, tubers
17
Meat
16
Poultry
15
1990 Iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium and iodine in foods from the United States total diet study.
J. Food Compos. Anal. 3:166
WHY THE SOIL IS DEFICIENT IN IODINE
The soil around the oceans generally contains adequate amounts of iodine. The more inland and
mountainous areas generally have lesser amounts of iodine. The Midwestern United States, including my
home state of Michigan, is part of the “Goiter Belt” since our soils are so deficient in iodine. The Goiter
Belt is not close to any natural iodine-containing source such as the ocean. Any natural or man-made
phenomenon that leads to soil erosion will make an iodine-deficient soil problem worse. The movement
of the glaciers across the Midwest is cited as one of the reasons why the soil is iodine deficient. In
addition, deforestation and poor farming techniques exacerbate this problem.
This book will explore, in detail, the medical conditions that can arise as a result of iodine
deficiency and how these disorders can be improved by supplementing with the correct amount and form
of iodine. The next two case histories give examples of some of the conditions that can be treated with
iodine supplementation.
Kevin, a 31-year-old sales representative, was well until he had a flu shot one year ago. “Before
receiving that vaccination, I was an extremely active weight lifter for 12 years. After the flu shot, I
became disabled. I could not work and I could barely get out of bed in the morning,” he said. Kevin
was diagnosed with hypothyroidism shortly after the flu shot and put on Synthroid. When I saw Kevin,
he had many of the signs of hypothyroidism, including puffiness, dry skin, thickened tongue, and slow
reflexes. I changed Kevin’s medication to Armour thyroid® and he noticed an immediate improvement,
but he still did not feel like his normal self. Laboratory tests showed that Kevin was extremely iodine
deficient (24-hour loading test showed 55% iodine excretion—normal >90% excretion). After
supplementing with an iodine/iodide supplement, he noticed an immediate improvement. He was
feeling so much better that he wrote me a letter which said:
“In the first five weeks of taking the iodine, I lost five pounds. The weights that I have been able
to use on practically all of my exercises have increased between 15-25%. My recuperation time
between workouts seems to be steadily improving. It seems as though I have been waking up on time
much more consistently than ever before. I am awake and energized at about 6:00 a.m., which has
never been the case before in my life! Additionally, I feel as though my energy level is much more
stable throughout the day. Since I have been taking the iodine, my need for caffeine in the morning has
disappeared. Overall Dr. Brownstein, I feel much better than I did before starting the iodine therapy. ”
Paula, age 42, suffered with severe headaches for over ten years. “I almost learned to live with
the headaches. They just became a daily part of my life,” she said. Paula was being treated for
hypothyroidism with Armour® thyroid and noticed the thyroid hormone improved her headaches by
approximately 40%. Paula said, “I was happy to get some relief, but I wasn’t satisfied. It is no fun to
wake up most days with a vice around your head. ” When Paula was checked for iodine levels, her
serum iodine levels were zero (below the detectable limits of the test). The low iodine levels were
confirmed with an iodine-loading test which was extremely low at 17% (normal >90%). Paula was
placed on 37.5mg of a combination of iodine and iodide (Iodoral®) and noticed an improvement in her
headaches within two weeks. “I couldn’t believe it. I started to actually have headache-free days. After
four weeks on the iodine, my headaches were over 95% better. Even if I did get a headache, it was not
nearly as severe. As I started to feel better, I began to realize how much the headaches were impacting
my life,” she claimed. Paula ran out of the iodine two months later and all of her symptoms began
returning. Paula reported, “It took about two weeks off of the iodine before the headaches started to
return. All of the same symptoms I was suffering with began to come back. Again, after I started the
iodine, the headaches began to go away. I feel like the iodine has given me a new lease on life. My
husband and my children thank you. ”
FINAL THOUGHTS
Iodine deficiency is, unfortunately still with us, and is occurring at epidemic levels. Iodine
deficiency is associated with a plethora of illnesses (see Table 1 ). The next chapters will show you how
to properly measure iodine levels and will educate you on the mechanisms of action that iodine has in our
bodies. Furthermore, you will learn that iodized salt is not only an inadequate source for providing
sufficient amounts of iodine to the body, it is a toxic, devitalized substance that is best avoided.
- Manner, M.G., et al. Salt Iodization for the Elimination of Iodine Deficiency. International Council for
the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders. 1995
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 9 th Edition. Williams and Wilkins, 1999.
Adrasi, E. Iodine concentration in different human brain parts. Analytical and Bioanalytical chemistry.
November 13, 2003
- Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 9 th Edition. Williams and Wilkins, 1999.
- Newton, David. Chemical Elements. Lawrence W. Baker, Editor. 1999
- Kimball, O.P. Prevention of goiter in Michigan and Ohio. JAMA. 1937; 108:860-864
- Matovinovic, J., et al. Goiter and other thyroid disease inTecumseh, Michigan. JAMA. 1965: 192(#):
134-140
- Kimball, O.P. Endemic Goiter: A food deficiency disease. J. Am. Dietetic. Assn. 1949; 25:112
- Marine, D. Prevention and treatment of simple goiter. Ad. Med. J. 26:437-442, 1923
- Marine, D. The prevention of simple goiter in man. J. Lab. Clin. Med. 3:40-48
- Dunn, John. Editorial: What’s happening to our iodine? J. of Clinical Endcrin. And Metab. Vo\. 83, No.
10. 1998
Chapter 2
Iodine Deficiency and Iodized Salt
CHAPTER 2: IODINE DEFICIENCY AND IODIZED SALT
David, a 42-year-old Michigander, had taken good care of himself. He regularly took vitamins
and minerals, did not eat a lot of junk food and exercised regularly. “I feel better now than I did when
I was in my 20’s. I eat better and my energy level is better,” he said. His father, mother, and two sisters
were being treated for hypothyroidism. David was diagnosed with hypothyroidism eight years ago and
was taking thyroid medication (Armour® thyroid) regularly. When David's iodine level was checked
with an iodine/iodide loading test, he was shocked. His iodine level was found to be very low at 46.2%
excretion (normal excretion is greater than 90%). “I couldn’t believe it. How could my iodine level be
so low, when I felt so good? I have been taking vitamins and minerals for years,” he said. When he
started supplementing with an iodine/iodide combination (Iodoral®), he immediately felt better. “My
energy level dramatically increased. I thought I was feeling good before I began taking the iodine, but
now I know what really feeling good is about. I started sleeping better and my dreams became much
more vivid. In addition, my head felt much clearer. It feels wonderful,” he exclaimed. After three
months of iodine supplementation, David’s iodine levels improved to a more healthy 87% excretion
(normal levels >90%).
David is your author. After experiencing the wonderful effects of taking iodine, and hearing of the
positive results my patients have experienced with using iodine, I became very interested in researching
its clinical uses.
New 5 th Edition update on David’s case: I am still taking iodine—now at 75mg/day. I still feel
well on it. If I miss a few days of taking it, I feel my energy level decline. My bromide level, which was
high at 126mg/L has now fallen to lOmg/L. There is no known therapeutic effect of bromide. I believe
our continual exposure to toxic halides has allowed my bromide levels to still remain elevated.
Bromide is a toxic halide that is detoxified from the body by iodine. More about bromide can be found
in Chapter 11 .
INTRODUCTION
Iodine deficiency is a worldwide problem. Diets that are deficient in iodine can result in many
severe medical conditions including cretinism (very severe brain damage occurring very early in life),
mental impairment, reduced intellectual ability, goiter, and infertility. In addition, iodine deficiency
predisposes one to an increased risk of breast, prostate, endometrial, and ovarian cancer.- There is a
decreased childhood survival rate associated with iodine deficiency. Studies have shown that neonatal
mortality can be decreased by up to 50% when iodine deficiency is rectified.- Other illnesses that may
result from iodine deficiency include sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), multiple sclerosis, and other
myelin disorders, 2 as well as ADHD.
The World Health Organization has recognized that iodine deficiency is the world’s greatest single
cause of preventable mental retardation. ; Iodine deficiency has been identified as a significant public
health problem in 129 countries. Approximately one-third of the world’s population lives in iodine
deficient areas and up to 72% of the world’s population is affected by an iodine deficiency disorder.-
IODIZED SALT
Some may think that the iodization of salt (i.e., iodized salt) has eliminated iodine deficiency
disorders in the United States. However, the data does not support that conclusion. Over the last 40 years,
studies by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey I (NHANES—completed 1971-1974)
and NHANES 2000 show iodine levels have dropped 50% in the United States (see Figure 2 next page).-
This drop was seen in all demographic categories: ethnicity, region, economic status, population density,
and race. The percentage of pregnant women with low iodine concentrations increased 690% over this
time period. As previously mentioned, low iodine concentrations in pregnant women have been shown to
increase the risk for cretinism, mental retardation, attention deficit disorder, and other health issues in
children. These topics will be explored in more detail in Chapter 10 .
HOW MUCH IODINE IS IN IODIZED SALT?
In the United States, iodine is added to salt to provide a content of 77pg of iodine per gm of salt.
Although the content of iodine in salt varies from country to country (depending on the standard set by the
governing agencies), the goal is to achieve the RDA for iodine. In the United States, the RDA of iodine is
from 150pg/day to 290pg/day (see Table 3 k The average salt intake in the U.S.A. is estimated to be
approximately 5gm/day, which would theoretically supply 385pg of iodine. However, studies have shown
that urine levels of iodine in 24-hour urine tests are approximately five times lower.-
Figure 2:
NATIONAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION EXAMINATION SURVEY IODIDE LEVELS
Table 3: RDA for Iodine
The recommended daily allowance of iodine
Life Stage
RDA
Adult Male
150(ig/d
Adult Female
150ng/d
Pregnancy
220ng/d
Lactation
290ng/d
Remember, the RDA for iodine was set up to prevent goiter, which it does very well. However, as
illustrated in this chapter and throughout this book, the RDA for iodine is inadequate to provide enough
iodine to promote optimal thyroid, endocrine, and immune system functioning. Furthermore, the RDA is
inadequate to prevent cancer.
IS IODIZED SALT A GOOD SOURCE OF IODINE?
As mentioned above, iodine levels have fallen by approximately 50% over the last 40 years
according to the NHANES data.— Iodine was added to salt in the 1920’s to help combat thyroid goiter.
Since that time, iodine is still being added to many brands of salt.
I was taught in medical school that there is enough iodine in salt to supply the body’s need for
iodine. In fact, I believe that this has been taught in every medical school for over 80 years. However,
there were no studies to back up this claim and the NHANES data clearly shows that there is something
happening to cause iodine levels to decrease by over 50% during the last 40 years.
Is iodized salt the best source of iodine for the body? The research does not support the idea that
iodized salt is a readily available source of iodine for the body.
In 1969, researchers looked at the bioavailability of iodine in salt versus bread.h Two groups of
people were studied; one group ingested a measured amount of iodine in salt, the other group ingested a
measured amount of iodine in bread. Both subject groups were estimated to ingest approximately 750pg
of iodine. By ingesting 750pg of iodine, the expected serum levels of iodine would be 17.2pg/L.
However, as shown in Figure 3 . the iodized salt group only had a serum level of 1.7pg/L. versus 18.7pg/L
for the bread group. This information would suggest the iodine in iodized salt is only 10% bioavailable.—
Figure 3: Bioavailabiltiy of Iodide in Salt
20/T
Expected Bread Salt
Iodine is added primarily to refined salt. Refined salt is a lifeless, devitalized product that has had
all of its minerals removed and has also been exposed to toxic chemicals that gives it its white color. The
ingestion of refined salt leads to many health problems and it needs to be avoided. Unrefined salt should
be the salt-of-choice. For more information on the health benefits of unrefined salt, I refer the reader to
Salt Your Way to Health.
WHY ARE PEOPLE DEFICIENT IN IODINE?
It has been assumed that since the iodization of salt was implemented, iodine deficiency disorders
would be a thing of the past. Due to the poor availability of iodine in salt as well as a declining salt intake
by the population, this is not the case. There are additional reasons why iodine deficiency disorders are
still present today.
Over the years, poor farming techniques have led to deficiencies of iodine and other minerals in the
soil. Crops grown in iodine-deficient soil will be deficient in iodine. Also, the stigma of salt causing high
blood pressure has convinced many individuals not to use salt in their foods. Many times the only iodine
one will get horn the diet is found in iodized salt. A low-salt diet can naturally lead to an iodine-deficient
state.
Radioactive iodine, used in many medical procedures, will further exacerbate an iodine deficiency
problem. Also, exposure to many chemicals that inhibit iodine binding in the body (e.g., bromide,
fluoride, chloride—explained in Chapter 11 ) further worsens the problem.
Certain diets and lifestyles can also predispose one to developing iodine deficiency. Some examples
of these diets are listed in Figure 4 on the next page. Inadequate dietary iodine intake can cause many
severe problems including thyroid problems, cancer, intellectual decline, cretinism, and others.
The most significant change in the iodine status of recent times occurred with the changing of the
food industry. In the 1960’s, iodine was added to the commercial baking industry as a dough conditioner
to aid bread and pastry manufacturers.
Figure 4: Diets That May Cause Iodine Deficiency
1. Diets without ocean fish or sea vegetables
2. Inadequate use of iodized salt including low-sodium diets
3. Diets high in the consumption of bakery products (e.g., breads, pasta) which contain bromide
4. Vegan and vegetarian diets
This single addition to baked goods significantly increased the iodine intake of the U.S. population,
as one slice of bread contained the RDAfor iodine of 150pg.— Articles horn the NIH were published
which questioned the safety of using iodine in bakery products. Some researchers felt that this level of
iodine in baked goods would cause a malfunctioning of the thyroid gland.
Ten years later, bromine replaced iodine in the baking industry. Bromine is a halide (as are iodide,
fluoride, and chloride). All halides compete with one another for absorption and receptor binding in the
body. Bromine interferes with iodine utilization in the thyroid as well as wherever else iodine would
concentrate in the body.—
Due to the interference of iodine binding in the body, bromine is a known “goitrogen”—it promotes
the formation of goiter in the body. Bromine is a toxic substance that has no therapeutic use in our bodies.
Bromine also can bind to iodine receptors in the breast and is a known carcinogen to the breast. On the
other hand, iodine has anticarcinogenic properties.
We now have two major reasons why iodine deficiency disorders have become much more common.
1. The substitution of bromine for iodine in the bakery process lowered the iodine
utilization.
2. Bromine began effectively binding to and inhibiting iodine from binding to its own
receptors.
The consequence of replacing iodine with bromine has been to make a bad situation worse. Iodine
deficiency has been accelerated and, due to increasing bromide levels, iodine is now being competitively
inhibited horn binding to its own receptors. The medical consequences include increased thyroid
disorders including autoimmune thyroid disorders (Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease), and thyroid cancer.
Furthermore, the rise of other cancers including breast, ovarian, uterine, and prostate may be related to
this phenomenon. This will be explained further in Chapter 11 .
PERCHLORATE
Perchlorate is a substance that is found in nature and is also a man-made substance. Perchlorate is
manufactured for rocket fuel and many industrial uses. Perchlorate contains one atom of chlorine and four
atoms of oxygen. Chlorine is part of the halide family (iodine, bromine and chlorine). Excess perchlorate
levels can displace iodine in the body and damage the transport of iodine into the cell. Perchlorate
contamination of our water supply is widespread and increasing. Increasing perchlorate exposure is
another reason why iodine levels have fallen over the last 30 years. Chapter 11 reviews the details and
consequences of perchlorate exposure in much more detail.
HOW DO YOU MEASURE IODINE LEVELS?
The generally accepted method of testing iodine is by measuring the amount of iodine in the urine.
However, that is not a reliable method in order to determine the whole-body iodine status.
Over 10 years ago, Dr. Abraham and co-investigators developed an iodine-loading test. It is based
on the concept that whole-body iodine status can be established by measuring the amount of iodine
excreted over 24 hours after taking a 50mg iodine tablet. Since over 95% of orally ingested iodine in an
iodine-sufficient individual is excreted in the urine, following urinary excretion levels of iodine can
provide useful information about the body’s utilization of iodine. The iodine loading test is based on a
simple premise; the body will hold onto more iodine in a deficient state as compared to a sufficient state.
In other words, if the body is deficient in iodine, you would expect more iodine to be retained by the
body. Conversely, if the body has sufficient iodine levels, you would expect the body to retain less iodine.
This is exactly what happens with the 24-hour iodine loading test. It is a functional test of whole-body
iodine levels.— In my experience, the iodine-loading test has been found to provide useful information on
the body’s iodine status.
Iodine binds to iodine receptors throughout the body. If the body’s receptors for iodine are sufficient
in iodine, a large percentage of ingested iodine will be excreted from the body. On the other hand, if there
is an iodine deficiency present, ingested iodine will be retained at a much larger percentage.
The iodine-loading test is performed after taking 50mg of an iodine/iodide combination. Urine is
collected for 24 hours after taking the iodine. In an iodine-sufficient state, approximately 90% of a
mixture of a 50mg dose of iodine/iodide would be excreted (i.e., 45mg), and 10% of the iodine would be
retained (i.e., 5mg). Levels below 90% excretion would indicate an iodine-deficient state.
FIRST LOOK AT IODINE LEVELS AT MY OFFICE
Twenty-four patients in my office were selected at random to have their iodine status evaluated.
Each patient was instructed to take 50mg of a combination of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®) and collect 24
hours of urine. The urine was evaluated for the amount of iodine excreted. The results ( Figure 5 ) show
that 91.7% of the patients tested low for iodine levels. Iodine sufficiency occurs when the urinary
excretion is above 90%.
FIGURE 5: IODINE LEVELS IN 24 PATIENTS
1007<n
1 2 3 4 S S 7 8 3 10 11 t2 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Patient Number
It is worthwhile noting that most of these patients were already on a holistic treatment plan which
included vitamins, minerals and herbs. However, they were not supplementing with iodine. Most of the
patients studied had thyroid abnormalities, including hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, or Graves’ disease.
There was no difference in the iodine levels between the various thyroid disorders; nearly all (22/24)
were low. The results of this small study were the first clear indicators I had that iodine deficiency was
occurring in a large percentage of the population.
UPDATED RESULTS AT MY OFFICE
To the present date, we (Drs. Brownstein, Ng, and Nusbaum) have now tested iodine levels in over
6,000 patients. Our results have been consistent; approximately 96% of patients test low for iodine. In
fact, many patients initially test at severely low iodine levels (via spot urinary iodine) as their results are
reported as ‘below the detectable limits’. Dr. Jorge Flechas (the Dr. Jorge Flechas (the owner of FFP
labs) and Charles Hakala, RPh, (owner of Hakala labs) have been at the forefront of testing people
world-wide for their iodine levels. They have now tested tens of thousands of subjects and their results
are consistent with mine.— Contact information for the labs that test iodine status is found in the appendix.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Iodine deficiency is a huge public health problem The continuing and increasing exposure to
goitrogens (substances that promote goiter), including the halides bromide and fluoride, has exacerbated
the iodine deficiency problem (more on this in Chapter 11 ). Iodine deficiency is one of the main
underlying causes of many varied illnesses including thyroid disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia,
cancer (including cancer of the breast and prostate), and other health issues. I believe that properly
evaluating and treating iodine deficiency will not only help people improve the functioning of their
immune systems, it will also play an integral role to help people achieve their optimal health.
- Stadel, B. Dietary iodine and risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer. The Lancet. 4.24.1976
DeLong, FR, et al. 1997 Effect on infant mortality of iodination of irrigation in water in a severely
iodine-deficient area of China. Lancet. 350:771-773
— Foster, H. The iodine-selenium connection: Its possible roles in intelligence, cretinism, sudden infant
death syndrome, breast cancer and multiple sclerosis. Medical Hypothesis. 40. 61-65. 1993
-WHO. IBID 3/27. 12 Nov. 1998
5 WHO IBID 12 Nov. 1998
— Hollowell, JE et al. Iodine nutrition in the United States. Trends and public health implications: Iodine
excretion data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys I and III (1971-74 and 1988-94).
J Clin Endocrinol Metab 83:3401-3408. 1998.
— Venkatesh, M, et al. Salt iodization for the elimination of iodine deficiency. 1995
— Abraham, G. Orthoidosupplementation: Iodine Sufficiency of the Whole Human Body. The Original
Internist. December, 2002
— Dietary Reference Intakes (2001). Institute of Medicine
m Hollowell, JE et al. IBID. 1998.
— Pitman, JA. Changing normal values for thyroidal radioiodine uptake. NEJM. 1969; 280:1431-34
— Abraham, G. The Concept of Orthoiodosupplementation and Its Clinical Implications. The Original
Internist. June, 2004.
— Dunn, J. Editorial: What’s happening to our iodine? J. of Clinical Endocrin. And Metab. Vo\. 83, No.
10. 1998
— \bbecky, M. Effect of enhanced bromide intake on the concentration ratio I/Br in the rat thyroid gland.
Bio. Trace Element Research, 43:509-513, 1994
— Abraham, G. Measurement of urinary iodide levels by ion-selective electrode: Improved sensitivity
and specificity by chromatography on an ion-exchange resin. Optimox Research Info. IOD-03. 1.6.03
— Personal communication with Dr. Flechas and Charles Hakala. 11.15.08
Chapter 3
Di fferent Forms of Iodine
CHAPTER 3: DIFFERENT FORMS OF IODINE
Iodine is not very soluble in water. Jean Lugol, a French physician, was interested in substances that
could treat infections and became very interested in iodine because it showed promise in this area. In
1829, Dr. Lugol found that potassium iodide added to water increased the solubility of iodine. Dr. Lugol
began using a solution termed “Lugol’s Iodine” that was a mixture of 5% iodine and 10% potassium
iodide in water (see Figure 6 . next page). Two drops of 5% Lugol’s solution (0.1ml) contains 5mg of
iodine and 7.5mg of iodide. Iodide is the reduced form of iodine which contains an extra electron.
Dr. Lugol began treating many different infections with his solution and had great success. Dr.
Lugol’s recommended dose for a wide variety of problems was two drops per day of Lugol’s solution.
This provided 12.5mg of iodine, which is very similar to the physiologic dose of iodine for sufficiency of
the entire body. Dr. Lugol’s solution was widely available at apothecaries and was routinely prescribed
for many different conditions.
Figure 6: Lugol’s Iodine Solution
10% Potassium Iodide
5% Iodine
85% Distilled Water
IODIDE AND IODINE
As mentioned above, it is very difficult to get iodine into a solution that uses water as a solvent.
Therefore, as Dr. Lugol discovered, using the reduced form of iodine (iodide) increased the solubility of
iodine. In order to do this, iodine must first be reduced to iodide. For the science majors, this means that
the molecule of iodine has gained an electron, which allows it to form a salt with certain elements like
potassium and sodium. In the case of LugoFs solution, it is in the form of potassium iodide (10% in
Lugol’s solution). When there is a full complement of electrons in the iodine molecule, it is referred to as
iodide.
It was thought that the intestinal tract could easily convert iodine to iodide, but research has shown
this is not true.- Different tissues of the body respond to the different forms of iodine. The thyroid gland
primarily utilizes iodide while the breast tissue concentrates iodine. To decrease the incidence of goiter,
potassium iodide was added to table salt.
Donald, 49years old, had Hashimoto’s disease for ten years. Donald was found to be hypothyroid
and to have many nutritional deficiencies. He was treated with Armour® thyroid, vitamins and
minerals, and diet changes-I asked him to eliminate refined carbohydrates and trans-fatty acids. “I
am definitely feeling much better with the thyroid hormone. I felt like I was dying before. But, I still
don’t feel like myself. I still have brain fog and some muscle aches,” he stated. Iodine testing showed
that Donald was iodine deficient. He excreted only 35% of a challenge test of iodine (normal levels
should be over 90%). Donald was initially treated with a form of iodide known as SSKI. He claimed, “I
did not feel worse with the SSKI, I just did not feel better. I still had the brain fog while on it. ” Donald
was switched to a mixture of iodine and iodide (Iodoral®) and he noticed a definite change. Iodoral®
is a tablet form of Lugol’s solution. “Within one week of starting the Iodoral®, my brain fog began to
clear. I began sleeping better, my energy improved, and even my libido picked up. I feel almost totally
back to normal. Two months after taking 25mg of Iodoral® per day, his iodine test improved
dramatically (94.4% excretion). Update on Donald: After eight years of taking Iodoral®, he reported,
“I feel fantastic. It still helps me feel better every day. I could not imagine being without it. ”
The breasts, on the other hand, primarily utilize iodine. Studies have shown that iodine deficiency
can alter the structure and function of breast tissue. 2 This can include dysplasia and atypia that is the
forerunner for breast cancer. Animal studies have shown that iodide (the form of iodine that is present in
iodized salt) is ineffective at reversing the pre-cancerous lesions of animal breast tissue, whereas iodine
is much more effective. 2 Research has also shown that iodine, not iodide, will decrease lipoperoxidation
of breast tissue.-
Lipoperoxidation is a chemical reaction that can cause damage to the lipids of the cell membrane
and mitochondria. This can lead to many serious illnesses such as cancer and autoimmune disorders.
Lipoperoxidation has been found to be elevated in breast tumors and animal breast tissue exposed to
agents that promote cancer. Iodine decreases lipoperoxidation in the body. This will be more fully
explored in Chapter 5 .
Different body tissues concentrate different forms of iodine. As mentioned above, the breasts
concentrate iodine. The prostate gland concentrates iodine. The thyroid gland and the skin primarily
concentrate iodide. Other tissues, including the kidneys, spleen, liver, blood, salivary glands, and
intestines can concentrate either form. With various body tissues responding to different forms of iodine,
it would make common sense that a greater therapeutic benefit from iodine will be achieved by using a
combination of iodine and iodide. My clinical experience has proven, beyond a doubt, that a combination
of iodine/iodide (e.g., Lugol’s or tableted Lugol’s such as Iodoral® or Iodozyme HP®) is much more
effective than an iodide-only supplement (e.g., SSKI and most other liquid iodide formulations).
Leslie, a 43-year-old nurse, suffers with fibrocystic breast disease. “My breasts always hurt and
before my period, I can’t even stand to have a shirt on. The rubbing of clothing is excruciating,” she
said. Leslie had been to many doctors and was told to change her diet. She said, “Eliminating caffeine
and chocolate did help somewhat, but I am still miserable. ” When I saw Leslie, she not only had a
severe case of fibrocystic breast disease, she also had cysts on her ovaries. Leslie commented, “I kept
thinking that there must be something wrong with me. Why would I be getting all of these cysts in my
body?” On examination, Leslie had an enlarged thyroid gland and many signs of an underactive
thyroid condition, including being very fatigued. Laboratory testing showed severe iodine deficiency
with a 12% excretion on an iodine-challenge test (normal levels should be above 90%). Upon taking
iodine (in the form of an iodine/iodidemixture — Iodoral®), Leslie noticed a dramatic improvement in
her condition. “Within two weeks of taking iodine, I had more energy and within one month, my breast
cysts began to fade. After taking the iodine for two months, my breasts were soft and the lumpiness was
gone. It no longer hurts to wear clothing. It feels like a miracle,” she said. The ovarian cysts Leslie
had struggled with also resolved. Repeat testing of iodine levels showed a normal excretion rate on a
challenge test (94% excretion). Leslie’s holistic treatment plan includes the use of vitamins, minerals,
herbs, and natural hormones.
Update on Leslie’s condition: Leslie has been on iodine for over three years now. “I am 100%
better. There is no sign of fibrocystic breast disease. I would like to tell everyone who suffers with this
disease that there is a simple treatment — iodine. No one should suffer from this illness,” she said.
New 5 th Edition Update on Leslie’s condition: At Leslie’s last visit, I told her I was writing an
update to the iodine book. She became excited and said, “You must let your readers know how much it
has changed my life. I was miserable before taking iodine. Every woman with fibrocystic breast
disease should know about this. ”
Leslie’s case is not unique. The treatment of breast cysts with iodine has been reported for over 50
years. Most patients with breast cysts will significantly improve their condition with iodine
supplementation. Chapter 8 contains more information on the relationship between breast disease and
iodine deficiency.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I have used various iodide preparations for years, with mixed success. Although they are effective
for certain conditions such as sinusitis, there is clearly an advantage to using a combination of iodide and
iodine together. The results that I have seen in my patients have convinced me that using a combination of
iodide and iodine is a much more effective and appropriate treatment than using iodide alone.
- Thrall, K. Distribution of iodine into blood components of the Sprague-Dawley rat differs with the
chemical form administered. Fundamental and applied Toxicology. 15:75-81. 1990
- Eskin, B. Different tissue responses for iodine and iodide in rat thyroid and mammary glands. Biological
Trace Element Research. Abl. 49, 1995
3 Eskin, B. IBID. 1995
- Aceves, C. Is Iodine a gatekeeper of the integrity of the mammary gland? J. of Mammary Gland Biol,
and Neoplasia. \bl. 10, No. 2. April 2005.
Chapter 4
Iodine and the Thyroid Gland
CHAPTER 4: IODINE AND THE THYROID GLAND
Iodine is an essential ingredient in all of the thyroid hormones. T4 (thyroxine) contains four iodine
atoms. T3 (triiodothyronine) contains three iodine atoms. Without sufficient iodine supply, the thyroid
gland is unable to make thyroid hormones in adequate amounts.
The thyroid gland cannot optimally function in an iodine-deficient state. One of the consequences of
an iodine-deficient state is goiter (swelling of the thyroid gland). Over a hundred years ago, it was shown
that goiter could be avoided and often reversed with iodine. In addition to goiter formation, iodine
deficiency may also lead to other thyroid conditions including hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroid
diseases such as Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, as well as thyroid cancer. Studies have shown that
iodine-deficient individuals have an increased incidence of anti-thyroid antibodies.- - This chapter will
focus on the relationship between low iodine levels and hypothyroidism More information about iodine
and autoimmune thyroid illnesses and thyroid cancer can be found in the Chapter 6 .
Iodine is found throughout the body, with approximately 15-20mg stored in the thyroid of the average
adult. - When body iodine levels are sufficient, the thyroid gland can hold up to 50mg of iodine. The
thyroid gland requires adequate iodine levels to make thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland has developed
a specialized system to concentrate a large amount of iodine as compared to its size. This system is
known as the sodium/iodide symporter (NIS). There are other tissues of the body that utilize NIS to
concentrate iodine including the breasts, kidneys, placenta, stomach, rectum, and salivary glands. -
The thyroid gland is located in the lower part of the neck and produces thyroid hormone. It is
regulated by the pituitary gland which produces thyroid stimulating hormone—TSH. TSH stimulates the
thyroid gland to release thyroxine (T4). Triiodothyronine (T3) is converted fromT4 in the periphery of
the body. T3 is believed to be the active form of thyroid hormone that drives the metabolic functions of
the body. The Figure below illustrates how the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormone.
Pituitary gland—►TSH —►Thyroid Gland—► T4—► T3
T4 and T3 are the most common thyroid hormones produced. The ‘4’ in T4 and the ‘3’ in T3 refer to
the number of iodine atoms present. As previously stated, T4 has four iodine atoms present, while T3 has
three iodine atoms present. The end result of iodine deficiency is severe. It can include a poorly
functioning thyroid gland, goiter, increased autoimmune thyroid problems, and an increased risk of thyroid
cancer.
Thyroid hormone is essential for normal brain development of the newborn. Since iodine is
necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, an iodine-deficient state may predispose the newborn to
abnormal brain development. In children, iodine deficiency can result in mental retardation, goiter,
lowered IQ, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism Furthermore, fetal iodine
deficiency is associated with increased rates of stillbirth, abortion, and congenital anomaly.- The World
Health Organization stated that iodine deficiency is the single greatest cause of preventable mental
retardation.- Research has found almost a 50% increase in perinatal mortality due to iodine deficiency.-
When iodine deficiency is rectified, neonatal mortality has been shown to decline by over 50%.- —
Many studies have shown that children who live in iodine-deficient areas have lower IQ’s as
compared to children living in iodine-sufficient areas. A large analysis comparing children in iodine-
deficient and iodine-sufficient areas showed a 13.5 point difference in IQ score. -
Janet, age 57, had been treated for hypothyroidism for two years. She was found to be deficient in
iodine and given a therapeutic trial of a combination of iodine and iodide (Iodoral®). I asked her to
write a letter to me about her experience with iodine. She wrote the following letter:
“After taking Armour® thyroid for over two years, I began to feel somewhat sluggish and felt that
perhaps I needed more thyroid hormone. Dr. Brownstein told me to take two tablets of iodine
(Iodoral®-25mg) with my thyroid medicine. It has been over five months since I began the iodine
treatment and I still feel the perkiness everyday that I have been looking for. In fact, I started to feel
better the first day that I took the iodine. The iodine certainly was needed. I am just thrilled about how
much better I feel. ”
WHAT ABOUT IODIZED SALT?
As mentioned in Chapter 2 . iodine was added to iodized salt over 70 years ago to combat goiter and
cretinism. The RDAto combat these illnesses was established (150ug/day) with one goal in mind:
prevent goiter and cretinism. The RDA for iodine has been successful at combating goiter and cretinism;
however, the RDA is woefully inadequate in preventing many other thyroid disorders including
hypothyroidism, Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease, and thyroid cancer. Furthermore, the RDA for
iodine fails to provide optimal amounts of iodine for the rest of the body’s iodine needs. Finally, our
increasing exposure to toxic halogens—bromide, fluoride, and chlorine derivatives—have markedly
increased our iodine requirements. Other illnesses associated with iodine deficiency (e.g., breast cancer,
fibrocystic breast disease) are covered in other chapters.
HOW COMMON ARE THYROID PROBLEMS?
Thyroid illnesses are found at ever increasing numbers. Recent studies have estimated that 10% of
the adult population of the United States (13 million) may have laboratory evidence of thyroid disease.- I
have written in my book, Overcoming Thyroid Disorders. 3 — Edition , that I believe these numbers are
too low and a more accurate estimate would probably approach 30-40% of the population (up to 52
million adult Americans).— Why the discrepancy? Conventional medicine diagnoses a thyroid problem
based solely on the blood tests. I feel that the blood tests are not sensitive enough to pick up thyroid
abnormalities in the vast majority of patients suffering from thyroid problems. Therefore, a holistic
approach to diagnosing a thyroid issue, as I oudine in my book, is a much more comprehensive way to
diagnose a problem that affects every single cell in the body.
Why is adequate thyroid hormone so important? Every single cell, muscle, and organ in the body
depends on adequate thyroid hormone levels for optimal functioning. Thyroid hormone acts as the body’s
major metabolic regulator. In a low thyroid state, known as hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is releasing
inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone to meet the body’s metabolic demands, and the metabolic rate is
therefore reduced. In a hyperthyroid state, the thyroid gland is releasing excess amounts of thyroid
hormone that results in an elevated metabolic rate.
Why do so many people across this country and the world have a serious problem like a thyroid
disorder? Although the etiology of thyroid illness can be varied, one common denominator that could
explain this epidemic is iodine deficiency.
As previously discussed in Chapter 2 . one-third of the world’s population lives in an iodine-
deficient area by World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This large number of people living in an
iodine-deficient area closely correlates with the estimates for the number of people who have thyroid
disorders. All individuals with a thyroid disorder should be screened for iodine deficiency.
WHAT DOES IODINE DO IN THE THYROID GLAND?
Iodine is responsible for maintaining the normal architecture of the glands of the body including the
thyroid, ovaries, uterus, breast, and prostate. When the cells of the glandular tissue have enough iodine,
the tissue maintains a normal structure.
When iodine is deficient, the architecture of the glandular tissue becomes disrupted and the tissue
becomes cystic. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that have a distinct border from the surrounding normal tissue.
When palpated, cysts are generally soft and compressible.
If iodine deficiency persists, the cysts become nodular—that is, they become more firm upon
palpation. If iodine deficiency continues, the nodules start to change their histological appearance to
become hyperplastic. Hyperplasia literally means 'over-formation’. In a hyperplastic state, the cells start
to multiply rapidly and take on an increasingly disordered appearance when viewed microscopically.
Eventually, if iodine deficiency is not corrected, the end stage of this continuum can be cancer.
Chapter 8 will discuss fibrocystic breast disease and iodine deficiency. Fibrocystic breast disease
is a precursor to breast cancer. I have successfully treated many fibrocystic breast disease patients with
iodine. I feel that cysts on any glandular tissue should prompt a physician to check the patient’s iodine
status and to prescribe iodine, if indicated, to reverse the process.
In the thyroid gland, iodine deficiency results in the formation of cysts, nodules, and goiter. The
thyroid gland does not function optimally when the normal architecture is disrupted. I have treated
hundreds of patients for growths in their thyroid and other glandular tissue that resolve or get significantly
better with iodine therapy.
Lexi is a 15-year-old girl who was diagnosed with thyroid cysts and nodules one year previously.
Her thyroid was two-times the normal size. At our first visit, I could see Lexi’s thyroid protruding out
of her neck. Lexi had seen two endocrinologists who both recommended surgery. Lexi ’s mother
commented, “I really don’t want her to have surgery, but they are offering me nothing. We have been
following her thyroid ultrasounds and it just keeps getting bigger. I have a surgery date already
scheduled for three weeks from now unless you tell me otherwise,” she said. At our first visit, I asked
Lexi how she was feeling. She did not have any major complaints. Her energy level was good and she
was very active in school activities. I told Lexi and her mother that surgery was not warranted yet; the
enlarged thyroid had not caused any problems. After my exam, I ordered a spot urine iodide level and a
24-hour urinary iodide loading test. Lexi’s spot urine iodide was below the laboratory detectable
limits. Her 24-hour loading test was also low at 50% excretion (normal 95%). At this point I
prescribed iodine — 25mg/day, unrefined salt (ltsp/day of Redmond’s Real Salt), and a multivitamin
(Optivite). Two weeks later, Lexi had another ultrasound of her thyroid because both both she and her
mother-who is an ultrasound technician-felt the thyroid was visually smaller. The ultrasound showed
a 50% reduction in the overall size of her thyroid and all the cysts and nodules were shrinking. “The
radiologist called in two other colleagues to look at the ultrasound as he could not believe how much
it had shrunk,” Lexi’s mother commented.
I have seen coundess patients with cysts, nodules, and disrupted architecture of glandular tissue—
including the breasts, ovaries, uterus, and prostate improve or dramatically reverse their condition with
iodine supplementation. In many cases, iodine supplementation results in a cure. How long does this
process take? For most patients, three to six months is a reasonable time period to see results. Severely ill
patients may take years to see results.
HYPOTHYROIDISM
The thyroid gland controls the metabolic activity of the body. When there is adequate thyroid
hormone available for the cells of the body, there is a normal metabolic activity present. By contrast, in a
hypothyroid state, the metabolic activity of the body is lowered. Table 4 . on the following page, lists
some of the signs and symptoms related to hypothyroidism
The main thyroid hormones, T4 and T3, require sufficient iodine in order to be produced. In an
iodine-deficient state, hypothyroidism is the expected outcome as thyroid hormone will not be
manufactured. My research has shown that iodine levels need to be investigated in all hypothyroid
individuals. If iodine is found to be deficient, many times, supplementing with iodine can improve or even
cure the hypothyroid condition without the use of exogenous thyroid hormone.
Iodine and thyroid hormone have a synergistic action in the hypothyroid patient. When it is indicated,
it is more effective to use iodine along with thyroid hormone to achieve the best results.
Karen, age 50, suffered with hypothyroidism for 15 years. Her symptoms included fatigue, mental
confusion, puffiness, and hair loss. I diagnosed Karen with hypothyroidism three years ago and began
treating her with Armour® thyroid as well as a combination of vitamins, minerals, and herbs. She
noticed a significant improvement in her symptoms when she began taking Armour® thyroid. “I feel
like I got my life back. I could think much more clearly and my energy level started to improve,” she
said. Karen’s daughter, Lisa (22years old) had similar symptoms and was diagnosed with
hypothyroidism two years ago. She had similar positive results with thyroid supplementation. Four
months ago, the laboratory tests showed both Karen and Lisa had iodine deficiency. Three months
after starting iodine supplementation, I received a letter from Karen that said in part, “Lisa and I take
Armour® thyroid and we have had much success with that, but adding iodine really made a difference.
We have more energy and it is much easier to get up in the morning. The muscle stiffness I
occasionally experienced is gone. As you know, I spent three weeks in California with my mom who
had undergone surgery for colon cancer. I was in a bed other than my own and I was on a different
time schedule. I wasn’t getting much sleep and the stress level was very high. In the past, a situation
like that would have exhausted my body and I would be aching all the time. Not this time! In spite of
everything that was going on, I felt great. I attribute that to the iodine, because it is the only change I
have made since being in California. Lisa’s experience has been similar. She is in college and has a
very irregular schedule. Since she started taking iodine, I have a noticed a big difference in her energy
level. She actually wakes up on her own and has much more energy during the day and night. ” After
two months of therapy, I had asked Karen and Lisa to reduce their iodine dosage slightly and they did
not feel as good. “When Lisa and I cut down our dosage of iodine, we gradually noticed we did not
feel as well. At your recommendation, we increased the dosage and began to feel as good as we were
before,” Karen wrote. Karen and Lisa’s experience is very common for many of my other patients. As is
the case with Karen and Lisa, optimal thyroid function is dependent on having adequate iodine
ingestion.
Table 4: Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Brittle nails
Cold hands and feet
Cold intolerance
Constipation
Depression
Difficulty swallowing
Dry skin
Elevated cholesterol
Essential hypertension
Eyelid swelling
Fatigue
Hair loss
Hoarseness
Hypotension
Inability to concentrate
Infertility
Irritability
Menstrual irregularities
Muscle cramps
Muscle weakness
Nervousness
Poor memory
Puffy eyes
Slower heartbeat
Throat pain
Weight gain
IODINE AND THYROID SUPPLEMENTATION
It has been over 20 years since I started studying and practicing holistic medicine. During this time,
every new patient who comes to see me receives a full thyroid and hormonal evaluation. Helping a patient
balance their hormonal status has proven to be one of the most rewarding things I do in the practice of
medicine. I did not learn how to properly use iodine in treating these patients until about ten years ago.
Over the first ten years of my holistic practice, I diagnosed many patients with hypothyroidism Needless
to say, I treated many of these patients with thyroid hormone.
During this time, I was frustrated. Although most patients were doing better, I could not believe that
so many people were suffering from thyroid problems. I did not want to treat every patient with thyroid
hormone. I wanted to find an underlying reason why so many patients were suffering from thyroid issues.
At first I looked for nutritional deficiencies such as selenium, iodine, vitamin A, vitamin D, and
vitamin C. Although I tried to correct these deficiencies, my patients were not responding until I gave
them thyroid hormone.
Approximately 10 years into this practice I met my mentor on iodine—Dr. Guy Abraham He
showed me the form of iodine I was using—iodide—was not the most efficacious form and he taught me
how to measure iodine levels. Furthermore, Dr. Abraham’s research was clear; whole-body iodine
sufficiency was best achieved by using both iodine- and iodide-containing products.
Only when I started using the correct form of iodine—in combination with iodide—was I able to
reduce my use of thyroid hormone.
My practice now is much different than it was 20 years ago. Hopefully I have become a little wiser
(some may disagree with that). Now, every patient has their iodine levels assessed. If I diagnose a patient
with hypothyroidism, I do not start thyroid hormone therapy until they have sufficient iodine levels. This
has allowed me to use much smaller thyroid hormone dosing. Twenty years ago, my average thyroid dose
was 120-180mg/day of desiccated thyroid hormone. Now, it is 30mg/day.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE ALREADY TAKING THYROID HORMONE: RULE
OF THIRDS
If someone is already taking thyroid hormone and they are diagnosed with iodine deficiency, the
‘rule of thirds’ comes into play. These patients may need to:
• Maintain the same thyroid hormone dose
• Reduce their thyroid hormone dose in half
• Stop taking thyroid hormone
The problem is, when starting iodine therapy, I do not know which of the three groups an individual
patient will fall into. I tell my patients if, upon staring iodine therapy, they become nervous, anxious, or
develop palpitations, they need to immediately cut their thyroid hormone dose in half. If the above
symptoms still persist, it is best to stop the thyroid hormone.
Following patients closely can minimize complications. In addition, performing an appropriate exam
and checking blood tests can help guide the process.
WHY DOES TSH INCREASE WHEN STARTING IODINE THERAPY?
One of the most frequent e-mails I receive from physicians and laypeople is their concern about TSH
levels elevating after beginning iodine therapy. As previously mentioned, TSH is released by the pituitary
gland to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone.
However, TSH has another function besides stimulating thyroid hormone production. It also helps
stimulate the body’s production of the iodine transport molecules-the sodium-iodide symporter-NIS.
Without adequate amounts of NIS, iodine would not be able to enter the cells and be utilized.
In other words, the NIS is like a taxi cab that shutdes the iodine from the blood stream into the
thyroid cell in order for the cell to use the iodine to make thyroid hormone.
This concept is not hard to grasp. Let’s take the example of a patient who is iodine deficient. This
iodine-deficient patient’s body does not require a large amount of NIS since there is little iodine that
needs to be transported into the cells. However, when this individual begins to supplement with iodine,
the extra iodine now needs to be transported into the cells. One way the body will accomplish this is to
increase the production of TSH to stimulate more NIS. In other words, when iodine supplementation is
started, the body will produce more “NIS taxi cabs” to shutde the iodine into the thyroid cell in order to
produce thyroid hormone.
My experience has shown, when iodine supplementation has begun, an elevated TSH without
clinical signs of hypothyroidism (i.e., fatigue, hair loss, headaches, etc.) as well as normal T3 and T4
levels does not indicate a hypothyroid condition. On the contrary, the elevated TSH is the body’s
appropriate and necessary response to produce more NIS or “taxi cabs” to increase the transport of
iodine into the thyroid cells. How long does TSH stay elevated? I have found that TSH may remain
elevated for up to 6 months before lowering to normal.
How high do TSH levels rise? The normal TSH level ranges from 0.5-4.5mIU/L. I have witnessed
TSH levels elevated to 5-30mIU/L for a period of time-sometimes up to six months-before falling back to
the normal range. Remember, if there are no clinical symptoms of thyroid problems and T3 and T4 levels
are normal, it is doubtful that TSH elevation is sign of hypothyroidism In this case, TSH elevation is
normal and expected. The TSH will decline back to the reference range after the thyroid gland is saturated
with iodine.
IODINE-INDUCED HYPOTHYROIDISM
I, and my partners, have treated thousands of patients, autoimmune thyroid (AIT) disease patients
included, and we have not seen an epidemic of iodine-induced hypothyroidism. In fact, as I was going to
print with this book, I queried my partners on this issue, and we came up with two cases of iodine-
induced hypothyroidism. Keep in mind that is only two out of over thousands of patients treated with
iodine.
Most doctors and some holistic doctors do not seem to understand the concept of how the TSH rises
with the initiation of iodine therapy. Allow me to repeat myself: Increasing TSH levels, without falling T3
and T4 levels and clinical signs and symptoms, do not indicate iodine-induced hypothyroidism. Finally, it
is worth repeating-TSH levels initially rise in nearly all who start iodine therapy. This is a normal and
expected response.
IODINE-INDUCED HYPERTHYROIDISM
Does iodine therapy cause hyperthyroidism? I was taught in medical school that it did, especially in
patients suffering from autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Graves’ or Hashimoto’s disease. Young
doctors-in-training are still taught this today. So, let me answer the question: Very rarely. Between my
partners and myself, we estimate that over 12 years, less than 10 patients out of thousands treated became
hyperthyroid when treated with iodine.
When I lecture to doctors, I tell them one particular condition can predispose to iodine-induced
hyperthyroidism. This condition occurs in a patient who has an autonomously functioning nodule in their
thyroid. Sometimes this is referred to as a hot nodule on a thyroid scan.
An autonomously functioning nodule is not under the feedback control of the pituitary and the
hypothalamus. It functions independently of the thyroid gland. When iodine is present, these nodules can
take up the iodine and produce copious amounts of thyroid hormone leading to hyperthyroidism. This
condition can be diagnosed with a thyroid scan. However, it is most frequendy diagnosed after a trial of
iodine therapy is given and the patient becomes hyperthyroid after taking the first couple of doses.
How do you treat a patient with an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule? These patients must
avoid iodine supplements and food (such as seaweed) that is high in iodine until the nodule is surgically
removed.
Even less frequently, I see iodine cause hyperthyroidism in a patient without an autonomously
functioning thyroid nodule. However, iodine can cause adverse effects, including symptoms of
hyperthyroidism such as nervousness, jitteriness, palpitations, etc., from a detoxification reaction. When
this occurs, in most cases, it is due to iodine displacing the toxic halide bromine. Bromine toxicity can
display all the symptoms I mentioned above. More about bromine toxicity can be found in Chapter 11 .
BREAST CANCER: THE PROBLEM WITH TAKING THYROID HORMONE
WHEN IODINE DEFICIENCY IS PRESENT
One of the main jobs of thyroid hormone is to stimulate the metabolism of the body. In
hypothyroidism, the metabolism of the body is slowed down. Consequendy, excess weight gain is
common in hypothyroidism. Conversely, in hyperthyroidism, the metabolism of the body is accelerated
and weight loss is more common.
Iodine is not only necessary for thyroid hormone production, it is necessary for the production of all
the hormones of the body. Every gland concentrates iodine and utilizes iodine to manufacture hormones.
Furthermore, every cell depends on adequate iodine stores for the cell machinery to run optimally.
When thyroid hormone is taken, all the cells of the body are affected by it. In effect, thyroid hormone
raises the metabolism of every cell in the body. The elevated metabolic rate naturally increases the body’s
need for iodine. Therefore, if iodine is deficient, supplementing with thyroid hormone will exacerbate the
iodine-deficient problem.
Researchers have looked at the link between hypothyroidism and breast cancer for over 40 years.
There are researchers who feel that thyroid illnesses, including hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease
are associated with the development of breast cancer. On the other hand, researchers have reported that
women who take thyroid hormone for at least 15 years have an increased risk for developing breast
cancer.
One study compared women taking thyroid hormone versus women not taking thyroid hormone. - As
compared to women who never took thyroid hormone, the women taking thyroid hormone had a 50%
increased incidence of breast cancer. This same study found that breast cancer incidence was linearly
increased the longer the time period that the women took thyroid hormone. This is illustrated in Figure 7 .
20 %
15%
10 %
5%
o%
Incidence of Breast Cancer (%)
Figure 7: Length of time taking thyroid hormone and incidence of breast cancer.
What is the link between an increased breast cancer risk in both women who took thyroid hormone
for a long time period and women who had hypothyroidism? I think the common link is iodine deficiency.
In an iodine-deficient state, taking thyroid hormone elevates the metabolic rate of the body which also
increases the body’s need for iodine. When iodine deficiency is present, the longer that thyroid hormone
is taken, the worse the iodine-deficiency problem will be. In women, this worsening problem is reflected
in an increased breast cancer rate. Presentiy, we are facing an epidemic of breast cancer where one in
seven U.S. women are suffering horn it. It is my hypothesis that this epidemic will not be solved until the
iodine connection is identified and treated. More information about iodine and breast cancer can be found
in Chapter 8 .
FINAL THOUGHTS
The thyroid gland will not function optimally when iodine deficiency is present. Thyroid hormone
production, like all the other hormones of the body, requires iodine. Sadly, iodine deficiency is occurring
at epidemic rates, whether by my own research or the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
Hypothyroidism is occurring at epidemic rates. However, thyroid hormone supplementation should
not be instituted without measuring iodine status. Taking thyroid hormone when iodine deficiency is
present can worsen the iodine deficiency problem by increasing the body’s metabolic rate.
The research is clear; taking thyroid hormone when iodine deficiency is present increases the risk
for breast cancer and, I believe, other glandular cancers including breast, ovary, uterine, and prostate.
This increased risk could be predicted as the glandular tissue requires iodine to maintain their normal
architecture. Anything that lowers the body’s iodine stores or increases the body’s need for it could be
predicted to cause an increase in breast cancer—as well as cancer of the other glands.
All individuals with a thyroid problem should have their iodine levels checked. If iodine levels are
suboptimal, iodine replacement with the correct form of iodine should be instituted. My experience has
clearly shown that the appropriate use of iodine in treating thyroid disorders, from hypothyroidism to
Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, is not only safe, but effective and inexpensive. What I have oudined for
you is a holistic approach to search for and treat an underlying cause of thyroid problems.
Iodine replacement is not the only therapy for thyroid illness. Nutritional supplementation,
detoxification, drinking adequate amounts of water, and dietary changes can also improve these
conditions. For more information on a comprehensive holistic plan to treat thyroid disorders, I refer the
reader to my book, Overcoming Thyroid Disorders. 3rd Edition .
Keep in mind that an elevated TSH when starting iodine therapy does not necessarily mean that
iodine is causing an adverse effect. On the contrary, for most patients, this is a normal and expected
response if the other thyroid hormone levels are normal and there are no clinical signs of hypothyroidism.
The next three chapters will expand on the concept that deficiency of iodine is one of the major
causes of autoimmune thyroid disorders. Remember, once you understand the cause of an illness you can
formulate an effective treatment plan. These chapters will identify the cause(s) of autoimmune thyroid
illness and present a treatment plan designed to stop the progression as well as reverse autoimmune
thyroid disorders.
- Fenzi, F. Role of autoimmune and familial factors in goiter prevalence. Studies performed in moderately
endemic area. J. Endocrin. Invest. 9:131-164. 1986
2 Eur. J. Endocr. 2000 Oct; 143(4):485-991
- Delange, F. Werner and Ingbar’s The Thyroid. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. 2000.
- Herzel, B. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 1998
- Endocrine Reviews February 1, 2003 vol. 24 no. 1 48-77
- J. Nutr. 127:574-8. 1997
- WHO. http://www.who.int/nutrition/topics/idd/en/ . Accessed 7.3.13
2 Thilly, C.G. Bull. Acad. Med. Belg. 1981; 136:389
2 Lancet. 2003; 362:1859-60
12 Lancet. Vol. 350. 9.13.97. p. 771-773
- Herzel, B. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 1998
- Canaris, Gay, et al. The Colorado Thyroid Disease Prevalence Study. Arch. Intern. Med. \bl 160, Feb
28, 2000
- Brownstein, D. Overcoming Thyroid Disorders. Medical Alt. Press. 2002
- JAMA. Vol. 236. No. 10. 09.1976
Chapter 5
The Oxidation and Organification of Iodine
CHAPTER 5: THE OXIDATION AND ORGANIFICATION OF IODINE
Approximately seven years ago, after I gave a lecture about iodine to a group of doctors in Houston,
TX, a physician from Australia, Dr. John Lee, asked me a question. His question sounded simple enough:
“David, what does iodine do in the cell?” At that time, I answered the question to the best of my
knowledge, but I knew the answer did not satisfy him or me. That started me on a quest to better answer
this question. Although we still don’t know everything that iodine does in the cell, there are many more
answers now.
This chapter will discuss the oxidation and organification of iodine. I know this is a difficult concept
to master. I feel it is important to appreciate what happens to iodine inside the cell and what iodine does
inside the cell in order to understand why it is so important to ensure adequate iodine levels.
WHAT HAPPENS TO IODINE AFTER IT IS INGESTED?
After iodine and iodide are ingested, they are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract by the halide
channel. Iodine is transferred inside the cell by facilitated diffusion. Iodide is transported into the cells
via a transport molecule called the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS). After iodide is transported into the
cell, it undergoes two important processes: oxidation and organification, which will be explained in this
chapter.
John, age 58, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia two years ago. “I don’t know what happened. One
day I was okay and the next day I ached all over and I was tired. John saw numerous doctors who
prescribed various medications. “The drugs did not help. I kept telling my doctors I wasn’t depressed
but they kept prescribing antidepressants. I finally got sick and tired of taking the drugs,” he said.
When John saw me, I found his thyroid gland to be enlarged. I ordered an ultrasound of his thyroid
gland and blood work and diagnosed him with Hashimoto’s disease. “When I found out I had
Hashimoto’s disease, I couldn’t believe it. I had been seeing many different doctors and they couldn’t
tell me what was wrong. They kept telling me I needed to be on an antidepressant medication,” he said.
As part of the initial exam, I tested John’s iodine level. John’s iodine loading test was found to be low
at 45% (normal >90%). John was placed on 75mg of iodine/day along with a complete nutritional
program. After twelve weeks of taking iodine, a follow-up 24-hour iodine loading test was now normal
at 95% excretion. However, he did not feel better. John was still complaining of fatigue and body
aches. Furthermore, John’s TSH increased from a baseline of4mIU/L to 12 mlU/L after taking 75mg of
Iodoral® for 30 days. At this time, John had normal T3 and T4 levels. John’s endocrinologist placed
him on thyroid hormone (Synthroid®) for the elevated TSH level. The Synthroid® had no effect on his
symptoms. When I saw John, I explained to him that the elevated TSH was a normal result of the body
producing more iodine transport molecules (NIS). Because he was not feeling better, I felt that he may
be having an organification problem with the iodine. I explained to him that his cells were unable to
effectively utilize iodine. After placing him on Vitamins B2 (lOOmg) and B3 (500mg) two times per day,
John noticed an immediate improvement. “It was a miracle. With the second dose of the B-vitamins, my
head cleared and all my fatigue went away. I felt 20 years younger. I have never taken anything that
works that quickly ,” he said. John has continued to take iodine (now 50mg/day) in addition to vitamins
B2 (200mg/day) and B3 (l,000mg/day). His thyroid antibody levels gradually lowered to normal levels
over the next six months. Most importantly, John now feels well. “I can’t believe how much energy I
have. Everybody has noticed the difference,” he claims.
John’s story is not unique. Ensuring optimal oxidation and organification of iodine improves the
immune system function and energy production.
Figure 8 (next page) shows what happens to iodide once it enters the thyroid gland. Once iodide is
transported into the thyroid cell, it undergoes oxidation. This is the process whereby iodide (the reduced
form of iodine) is oxidized to iodine. What this means is that iodide is relieved of one electron which
results in the production of iodine, as illustrated in Figure 8 .
The oxidation process occurs through the interaction of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 0 2 ) with
thyroperoxidase (TPO). This step is a very important process in the body’s ability to utilize iodide.
Abnormalities of the oxidation of iodide can result in the production of anti-thyroperoxidase
antibodies (anti-TPO). This leads to a condition called Hashimoto’s disease. More about Hashimoto’s
disease will be discussed near the end of this chapter.
FIGURE 8: The Oxidation of Iodide
Oxidation (H*0/ + TPO)
Iodide »Iodine
i
Hydrogen Peroxide: An Essential Element for Oxidation
Adequate hydrogen peroxide production is essential for facilitating the oxidation of iodide. Without
adequate hydrogen peroxide production, iodine will not be formed from iodide. Hydrogen peroxide is a
potent oxidizing agent. In the thyroid cell, its function is to oxidize iodide to iodine ( Figure 8 ). Hydrogen
peroxide along with TPO is essential for this step.
If the production and utilization of hydrogen peroxide is not closely maintained, it can damage tissue
and cause autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease. The immune system has developed
defense mechanisms to keep H 2 0 2 from harming tissues. This is primarily done with the selenium-
containing enzyme glutathione peroxidase which functions to keep hydrogen peroxide reduced to H 2 0
after it oxidizes iodide.- - A deficiency of selenium can impair this defense mechanism. More about
selenium can be found in Chapter 7 .
If the oxidation process occurs correctly, the next step in the utilization of iodine is called
organification.
THE ORGANIFICATION OF IODINE
Once iodine is formed, it undergoes organification and becomes part of cholesterol, lipids (fats),
and proteins ( Figure 9 . next page). Organification simply means being bound to an organic molecule. As
can be seen from Figure 9 . iodine in RDA amounts-150pg/day-can be bound to thyroglobulin and make
thyroid hormones—Tl, T2, T3, and T4. However, it takes larger doses of iodine-at least lOOx the RDA
for iodine-to produce the important iodo-lipids such as 5-iodolactone.
At lOOx the RDA, iodine can be organified to lipids in order to produce 5-iodolactone and other
iodo-lipids. 5-iodolactone, as well as the other iodo-lipids will not be formed in any appreciable
amounts when iodine is taken in RDA amounts. Simply put, RDA amounts of iodine barely give the cell
enough iodine to make thyroid hormone and prevent goiter.
FIGURE 9: THE ORGANIFICATION OF IODINE
Thyroid Hormones:
Tl, T2, T3, T4
6-lodolactone
Rick, a 52-year-old physician was very active in his daily life. He played tennis twice per week
and exercised daily. “I feel good most of the time, but I still have my ups and downs,” he said. Rick
was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease 15years ago. Since that time, his main problem was
maintaining his concentration. He claims, “Although I can still do everything, my brain has never felt
the same after Hashimoto’s disease came along. ” Rick was on a holistic treatment regimen of vitamins,
minerals, and eating a good diet for years. When Rick added in iodine (75-100mg/day), he immediately
noticed the difference. Rick stated that, “Ninety percent of my complaints melted away with the iodine.
It was miraculous.” After two years of taking the iodine, Rick was tested via blood, urine, and saliva
and we found that he had an organification defect with iodine. That means his cells were not properly
utilizing the iodine he was supplementing with. Upon taking two doses of a supplement containing
lOOmg of Vitamin B2 and 500mg of Vitamin B3 (ATP CoFactors®) he felt “fabulous”. “I have never
felt that good with just starting a new supplement. This cleared up all my nagging complaints. I now
feel 100% healthy,” he said.
Rick is my partner, Dr. Richard Ng. His story is not an isolated story. If there is an inability to
organify or oxidize iodine, the body will not receive the true benefits of it. It is important to keep
searching for answers if you are not receiving the best results with iodine therapy. Rick was not satisfied
until he felt 100% well.
AT THE RDA FOR IODINE: PRODUCTION OF THYROID HORMONE
When iodine is taken in amounts consistent with the RDA-approximately 150pg/day-iodine can be
bound to thyroxine molecules and become thyroid hormone. If there is insufficient iodine to accomplish
this, it can lead to an inadequate production of thyroid hormone and a hypothyroid state. The different
thyroid hormones are shown in Figure 9 .
AT 100XTHE RDAFOR IODINE: PROTECTION FROM CANCER
When iodine is taken in amounts at least lOOx the RDA (>15mg/day), iodine can now also bind to
other molecules including lipids (i.e., fats) and proteins. The binding of iodine to the fat molecule lactone
results in a fat-like substance known as 5-iodolactone. 5-iodolactone is a key regulator of apoptosis and
cellular proliferation of the thyroid gland.- - In other words, 5-iodolactone is an anti-cancer substance.
Apoptosis refers to the programmed cell death that all of our normal cells have.
IODINE AND APOPTOSIS: PROTECTION FROM CANCER
Apoptosis is a very important concept. All cells, like all living things, have a life cycle. All cell life
cycles have a growth phase, a division phase, and a death phase. After a cell dies, it is replaced by a new
cell. We want our cells to undergo apoptosis or programmed death. Without apoptosis, cells will continue
to divide until they overwhelm the body. Cancer cells are examples of cells that do not undergo apoptosis.
One of the mysteries of cancer is why these cells do not undergo apoptosis. A potent anticancer item
would be one that would promote apoptosis of cancer cells, without toxicity to other cells.
Iodine is one of these nutrients. We know that iodinated lipids such as 5-iodolactone have been
shown to regulate and promote apoptosis. Common sense would lead one to conclude that it is important
to ensure adequate iodine intake in order to promote the production of iodinated lipids such as 5-
iodolactone. These iodinated proteins are not detected in human tissue when iodine deficiency is present.
However, they are detectable when iodine is taken well in excess of the RDA for iodine.
It is important to emphasize that the apoptotic (i.e., anti-cancer) effect of iodine only occurs when
iodine is ingested with doses in excess-lOOx-of the RDA for iodine. Similar effects have also been
shown to occur in animals (dogs) as well.- I believe one of the major reasons we are seeing a significant
increase in cancer of the iodine dependent tissues (including the thyroid, breasts, ovaries, and prostate) is
due to a deficiency of iodine resulting in non-apoptotic cells as well as a suboptimal environment for
oxidation and organification.
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER: WHAT DOSE OF IODINE IS THE BEST FOR
PROTECTING AGAINST CANCER?
If we want to achieve the proper oxidation and organification of iodine, it becomes clear that the
RDA for iodine is woefully inadequate to provide the apoptotic (i.e., anti-cancer) effect. In fact, I believe
the RDA for iodine is not only inadequate for providing the apoptotic effect of cells throughout the body,
it is also inadequate to provide for the total needs of even the thyroid gland. As mentioned previously in
this book, the exposure to toxic halides—bromine, fluoride, and the chlorine derivatives—have been
increasing over time. These items not only cause iodine deficiency, they can poison the enzymes
responsible for organifying iodine.
THE UNDERLYING CAUSE OF AUTOIMMUNE THYROID ILLNESSES:
IODINE DEFICIENCY AND ANTIOXIDANT DEFICIENCY
I have already described the apoptotic (i.e., anticancer) effects of the iodinated form of lactone 5-
iodolactone. 5-iodolactone is not only important for preventing cancer, its production is also necessary to
help regulate the oxidation of iodine. Figure 10 (next page) illustrates this regulatory step in the
oxidation/organification of iodine.
As previously mentioned, the oxidation of iodide to iodine occurs through the interaction of H 2 0 2
and TPO. Iodine is a necessary product in order to provide the correct molecule in the cell so that
organification can occur. If organification does not take place or is blocked, thyroid hormone and iodo-
lipids will not be formed. As can be seen from Figure 10 . this reaction is controlled by intracellular
calcium levels and iodinated lipids—5-iodolactone.
FIGURE 10: ORGANIFICATION OF IODINE AT lOOx RDA
NADPH-Oxidase System
Calcium
6-iodolactone and other
iodinated lipids
Organification
at lOOx RDA
Iodide
Oxidation (H 2 0 2 +TP0)
-> Iodine
Intracellular calcium stimulates this pathway.- On the other hand, 5-iodolactone and other iodinated
lipids act as a brake on the system- - If there is not enough iodine in the cell to organify and produce
adequate amounts of 5-iodolactone, it can set the stage for damage to the thyroid cell and the development
of an autoimmune thyroid disorder such as Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.
A Proposed Mechanism For The Development Of Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
The NADPH oxidase system is found in the mitochondria of our cells. The mitochondria are the
energy-producing cells of our body. The mitochondria produce energy (i.e., ATP) through a complex
process called oxidative phosphorylation. All medical students (and most physicians) are familiar with
oxidative phosphorylation because we have to memorize the many steps responsible for producing ATP.
This production of ATP requires many items including: oxygen, magnesium, ADP, vitamins, and amino
acids.- —
Many people with chronic illnesses, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and
autoimmune disorders, complain they have no energy. ATP is the molecule that stores energy for the body.
The body is constantiy producing and utilizing ATP. Its production is a complex process that is beyond
this book. However, there are two cofactors, vitamins B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin), that are integral to
stimulating oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production.
Hydrogen peroxide is a byproduct of oxidative phosphorylation.- It is this production of hydrogen
peroxide that is so critical to the oxidation process of iodine. Hydrogen peroxide and TPO help to oxidize
iodide to form iodine.
If there is a deficiency in iodine, which is common when ingesting the RDA for iodine, there will not
be enough substrate (i.e., iodine) to produce iodinated lipids. As can be seen from Figure 10 . the lack of
5-iodolactone and other iodinated lipids results in a loss of the ‘brake’ in the pathway to oxidize iodide.
This may result in a temporary production of too much hydrogen peroxide. This excess hydrogen peroxide
can damage the enzyme TPO.
What Happens If TPO Is Damaged? Autoimmune Thyroid Illness
The body’s response to TPO damage is to produce antibodies against TPO or anti-TPO antibodies.
A diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease requires the presence of anti-TPO antibodies. As the damage
worsens, surrounding proteins can also be damaged such as thyroglobulin. Damaged thyroglobulin will
result in the body producing antibodies against thyroglobulin—anti-thyroglobulin antibodies.
In most cases of Hashimoto’s disease, there are antibodies to both TPO and thyroglobulin present.
Although Graves’ disease may also possess these same antibodies, antibody production is not necessary
to make the diagnosis of Graves’ disease. However, my clinical experience has shown that the treatment
for both Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease can follow a similar course with similar positive outcomes.
EARLY AND LATE STAGES OF AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISORDERS
It is well known that patients with autoimmune thyroid disorders can fluctuate symptomatically
between overactive thyroid symptoms (hyperthyroidism) and underactive thyroid symptoms
(hypothyroidism). These patients can also suffer from a combination of hypo- and hyper-thyroid
symptoms. For those struggling with autoimmune thyroid disorders, it can be an intolerable situation.
Early Stages Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
As previously explained, the early onset of the illness seems to be fueled by too much hydrogen
peroxide damaging TPO and causing oxidative damage. As the illness progresses, thyroid hormone
production can become unbalanced. Thyroid hormone is integral to stimulating the mitochondria to
produce energy or ATP. If the mitochondria are not producing enough energy molecules, fatigue will set
in. This fatigue can be unrelenting. Patients with this type of fatigue cannot exercise, as exercise will
worsen their fatigue. These same patients will also complain of brain fog, as well as muscle aches and
pains.
Late Stages Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
When the mitochondria are producing adequate energy molecules, we have enough energy to do as
we please. When the illness has progressed and energy levels have declined, the system may be ‘burning
itself out’ due to excessive oxidative damage. It is almost as if an oxidative storm has overwhelmed the
energy producing cells of the body. Now, the mitochondria are not producing ATP (energy) in amounts
necessary for health. So what can you do?
As shown in Figure 10 . providing enough iodine to produce iodo-lipids (e.g., 5-iodolactone) is a
start. Next, it becomes necessary to stimulate the NADPH oxidase pathway. Remember, this pathway is
integral to energy production. How do you increase the production of ATP in the mitochondria? You can
provide the correct co-factors in this pathway to increase the production of ATP. Vitamins B2 (riboflavin)
and B3 (niacin) are cofactors in the NADPH oxidase pathway and their use can help stimulate the
mitochondria to produce more energy as well as provide the thyroid cells with enough H 2 0 2 to properly
oxidize iodide.
The initial treatment in either early or late stage autoimmune thyroid disorders is to correct iodine
deficiency. Concurrently, a complete nutritional program, which includes the use of vitamins B2 and B3,
vitamin C, magnesium, and unrefined salt, can be instituted to correct mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidant
stress and tissue damage as described in the next section.
I diagnosed my nurse Angela with Hashimoto’s disease two years ago. Angela’s complaints
included fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and a general sense of not feeling well. “I am only 23 years
old, I can’t imagine what I will feel like when I am 50,” she said. Angela was treated with iodine
(50mg/day) and a complete nutritional program including vitamins and minerals. Angela did feel
somewhat better (approximately 30%) but was not satisfied. When she walked into my office one day,
she saw a bottle of ‘ATP Co-Factors®’ (www.Optimox.com ). which contains lOOmg ofB2 and 500mg of
B3. She asked me what this bottle was for and I told her that this therapy has been a big help for
Hashimoto’s, Grave’s disease, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue suffering patients. She said, “I have
Hashimoto’s, how come I am not on it?” I did not want to tell her that I forgot to tell her to take it, so I
sheepishly told her that the next bottle was for her. Angela took one pill (lOOmg ofB2 and 500mg of
B3) and felt her energy improve within two hours. “I have taken so many supplements without having
an effect, either positive or negative. This (ATP Co-Factors) was the greatest. I feel like I have woken
up,” she stated. Angela continues to take the supplement and continues to feel well. Update on
Angela’s case: Angela is still taking B2 and B3 along with iodine and continues to do well. “My
antibodies are gone and I feel better than I have ever felt. I feel healthy now,” she said.
How to Treat Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
1. Ingest enough iodine in order to provide adequate substrate to iodinate lipids.
The first step to treating autoimmune thyroid disorders is to assess iodine status. Iodine levels can
be measured by checking blood, urine, and/or saliva. I routinely check every new patient in my office for
their iodine levels primarily by measuring urinary levels. Either a spot urine or 24-hour loading test for
iodine can be performed. For more information on testing, please refer to the Appendix.
If iodine levels are low, I recommend taking enough iodine to ensure that there will be enough
substrate to organify (iodinate) lipids. As previously mentioned, it is impossible to achieve this with the
RDA for iodine. My clinical experience has shown that most people need from 12-50mg/day of a
combination of iodine and iodide. Lugol’s solution or tableted Lugol’s solution have both proven
effective. More information on where to purchase iodine can be found in the Appendix. However, I
suggest working with a health care provider knowledgeable in how to dose iodine in order to get the best
results.
2. Take Vitamins B2 andB3 in amounts necessary to stimulate the NADPH system to produce
adequate amounts of H 2 0 2 .
The amounts of vitamins B2 and B3 must be sufficient to overcome deficiencies in the system Dr. G.
Abraham’s research has shown that using lOOmg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and 500mg of vitamin B3
(niacinamide) twice per day will help to stimulate ATP production and provide adequate H 2 0 2 for
oxidation of iodide.
3. Correct oxidant stress in the thyroid gland and the mitochondria with antioxidants.
I have used higher-dosed vitamin C in my practice for years with excellent results. My clinical
experience has shown that larger doses of vitamin C are needed when one is suffering an exacerbation of
any illness. Generally, between 3-10,000 mg/day of vitamin C provides the antioxidant protection
necessary to overcome oxidative damage for most patients. Some people may require more. If the illness
is severe, intravenous vitamin C can be very helpful. The only major side effect of vitamin C is diarrhea,
which can easily be rectified by reducing the dose.
4. Ensure adequate magnesium levels.
At the present time, my research has shown that magnesium deficiency is widespread. Magnesium
levels can be ascertained by a red blood cell magnesium test. Magnesium acts as an antagonist to excess
intracellular calcium levels which can fuel the oxidative pathways as shown in Figure 10 .
5. Minimize oxidative stress in the body.
There are many ways to minimize oxidative stress in the body. Two of the most important ways are
to drink adequate amounts of pure water and to eat a healthy diet. Drinking adequate amounts of water
keeps the body hydrated. Table 5 (next page) shows you how to calculate your water intake. Furthermore,
eat a healthy diet that supplies the proper nutrients for your body. For information on eating a healthy diet,
I refer the reader to my book, The Guide to Healthy Eating.
Ensuring an adequate intake of unrefined salt in the body is also essential to minimize oxidative
stress. More information on salt can be found in my book, Salt Your Way to Health. Finally reduce
stress in your daily life and make sure you get the rest that you need.
Table 5: How to Calculate Your Water Intake
1. Take your weight in pounds
2. Divide by 2
3. The calculated number is the amount of water you should ingest in ounces per day
FINAL THOUGHTS
My research and my clinical experience have been clear: the RDA dose for iodine is inadequate to
prevent cancer. In fact, I believe that lowered iodine levels will provide fertile ground for cancer to begin
in many different hormonally sensitive tissues including the thyroid, breasts, ovaries, uterus, and prostate
gland. Optimal iodine supplementation varies in each individual; however, average doses to achieve the
best effects (including cancer prevention) occur with daily doses ranging from 12-50mg/day for the vast
majority of adults.
A diagnosis of an autoimmune thyroid disorder does not have to be a prescription for life-long
suffering. In fact, following the principles oudined in this chapter has proven effective for many of my
patients in helping them overcome an autoimmune thyroid disorder.
An autoimmune thyroid disorder (or any autoimmune disorder) is an example of excess oxidative
stress in the body. Remember, oxidative stress in the body is similar to a fire burning. You can put out this
fire by providing the body with what it needs: adequate intake of water, unrefined salt, and healthy food
full of nutrients. Finally, it is important to reduce your stress levels. To achieve the best results, you
should find a health care practitioner who can help guide you as well as monitor your symptoms. The best
results will be achieved with a comprehensive holistic approach.
1 Farber, J. Mechanisms of cell injury by activated oxygen species. Lab. Invest. 62:670-79. 1990
- Kohrle, J., et al. Selenium, the thyroid, and the endocrine system Endocrine Reviews. 26(7):944-84
- Eur. J. of Endocrin. 132. 735-43. 1995
4 Horm Metab. Res. 26. 465-69. 1994
- Rabinovitz, JL. Identification by nuclear magnetic resonance of iodinated lipids in the dog thyroid.
Biochemand Biophy Res. Com 1976; 68:1161-8
- Bachi, N. Thyroid cell injury is an initial event in the induction of autoimmune thyroiditis by iodine in
obese strain chickens. Endocrinology. 1995; 136:5054-60
Krawiec, L. The inhibition of PB125I formation of calf thyroid caused by 14-iodo-15-hydroxy-
eicosatrienoic acid is due to decreased H202 availability. Horm Metab. Res. 1988:20:86-90
- Pisarev, MA. Thyroid autoregulation. Inhibition of goiter growth and of cyclic AMP formation in rat
thyroid by iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid. J. Endocrin. Invest. 1988; 11:669-74
- Abraham, G. Evidence of Defective Cellular Oxidation and Organification of Iodide in a Female with
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue. Original Internist. June, 2007.
- Abraham, GE, and Flechas, JD. Management of fibromyalgia rationale for the use of magnesium and
malic acid. Journal of Nutr. Med. 1992:3, 49-59
- Ohayon, R. Inhibition of thyroid NADPH-oxidase by 2-iodohexadecanal in a cell-free system. Molec.
And Cell. Endocr. 1994; 99:133-41
Chapter 6
Iodine and Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
CHAPTER 6: IODINE AND AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune illness whereby the thyroid gland is attacked by the body’s
production of antibodies. This causes an inflammation and swelling of the thyroid gland.
Hyperthyroidism-an overactive metabolic state-is common in Graves’ disease. However, the end-stage
of Graves’ disease often results in a hypothyroid picture.
Graves’ disease occurs in 0.25-1% of the population and the number of individuals diagnosed with
Graves’ disease is increasing. Graves’ is more common in females and usually occurs in middle age. In
conventional medicine, there is no known cause of Graves’ disease. Some causative factors reported in
the literature include a genetic predisposition, infections, and stress.
Hashimoto’s disease is also an autoimmune illness where the body produces antithyroid peroxidase
antibodies (anti-TPO) that cause an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Goiter is a common occurrence
with Hashimoto’s disease. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be associated with Hashimoto’s
disease. Frequendy, hypothyroidism is the end result of long-standing Hashimoto’s disease. In
conventional medicine, there is no known cause of Hashimoto’s disease. However, I have identified two
major causes of both Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease: iodine deficiency and gluten sensitivity. More
about these causes later.
Hashimoto’s disease is more prevalent than Graves’ disease. The incidence of autoimmune thyroid
disease is commonly reported to occur in 0.1-5% of the population. The incidence of Hashimoto’s
disease is also rising rapidly. However, I believe the incidence of autoimmune thyroid disorders is much
higher than the reported numbers. Over the last twenty years, I have been checking every new patient for
an autoimmune thyroid illness. My experience would lead me to believe that the incidence of autoimmune
thyroid disorders is much higher-in the range of 15-20% of the population. Part of this estimate is also
based on asking other doctors at my lectures around the country what their experience has been. Nearly
100% of these doctors have reported finding similar (or sometimes higher) percentages of patients
suffering from autoimmune thyroid disorders. Needless to say, I feel that autoimmune thyroid disorders,
particularly Hashimoto’s disease, are increasing at epidemic rates.
FALLING IODINE LEVELS = INCREASED INCIDENCE OF AUTOIMMUNE
THYROID DISORDERS
Over the last 40 years, the rising incidence of Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease correlates with
falling iodine levels. I believe the increase in both Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease, which are occurring
at near epidemic rates, are due, in large part, to iodine deficiency.
In the U.S., every few years the government surveys vitamin, mineral, and toxicity levels from a
cross section of the U.S. population. It is reported as the National Health and Nutrition Examination
Survey (NHANES). From 1970-2012 NHANES reports iodine levels have fallen by over 50%.-
Keep in mind that nearly all conventional doctors are under the misinformed opinion that iodine
supplementation causes autoimmune thyroid diseases. I was taught that concept in medical school and I
can assure you that it is still taught today. However, the research does not support this hypothesis as, over
the last 40 years, iodine levels have significantly fallen while autoimmune thyroid disorders have
markedly increased.
This concept of falling iodine levels resulting in a rising incidence of autoimmune thyroid disorders
was illustrated in a European study. Researchers in Europe reported on the incidence of hyperthyroidism
in two areas of Denmark (Aalborg and Copenhagen). The two areas were chosen because Aalborg had
slightiy lower iodine levels (53pg/L—measured on urinary excretion) as compared to Copenhagen
(68pg/L). The results are shown in Figures 11 and 12 (next page).
For comparison to the Denmark results, the average iodide excretion in the U.S. is 134pg/L.- In the
U.S., nearly 60% of women of pregnancy age are deficient in iodine and 16.5% of women in their
reproductive age have a remarkably low iodide excretion (below 50pg/L).- - The World Health
Organization (WHO) claims iodide excretion below 50pg / Lis classified as moderate/severe iodide
deficiency.-
Figure 11: Iodine Excretion in Two Areas of Denmark
mq/li
Iodine Excretion (pg/L)
□ Copenhagen
□ Aalborg
Figure 12: Iodine Deficiency and the Relationship of Hyperthyroidism
1.50%
1.00%
0.50%
0 . 00 %
A
./Hz
Incidence of
Hyperthyroidism
□ Copenhagen
□ Aalborg
If iodine caused autoimmune thyroid problems, you would expect the rate of hyperthyroidism to
decline as iodine levels fall. As illustrated in the European study above, that is just not the case. This
study clearly illustrates that lowered iodine levels in Aalborg are associated with a 260% elevated
incidence of autoimmune thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism) when compared to an area with slighdy
higher iodine levels-Copenhagen. -
X-RAY FLUORESCENCE SCANNING
If iodine was causing autoimmune thyroid (AIT) disorders, it is reasonable to expect that subjects
with higher thyroid iodine levels, when compared to a group with lower thyroid iodine levels, would
have an increased incidence of AIT disease. However, that is not what the research has found. The
subjects who had AIT disorders had less iodine in their thyroid as compared to the subjects without AIT
disorders.
Figure 13: Thyroid Iodine Levels and Autoimmune Disorders
□ Normal Thyoroid
■ AIT With Normal
Thyroid Levels
□ AIT With
Hypothyroidism
X-ray fluorescence scanning measures the stable iodine content of the thyroid gland. A mean value of
lOmg/thyroid was reported in a normal population. Fifty-six subjects with autoimmune thyroiditis had a
mean value of 4.7mg iodine/thyroid-these subjects had normal thyroid levels. Thirteen subjects with
autoimmune thyroiditis and hypothyroidism had a mean value of 2.3mg/thyroid. Figure 13 (previous page)
illustrates this study. 2
DOES IODINE TREAT AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISORDERS?
When I was in medical school, I was told that no one needed to supplement with iodine. I was also
told that there was enough iodine in salt. Furthermore, it was implied that iodine supplementation caused
autoimmune thyroid disorders including Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease. Finally, I was taught that
patients with AIT disorders need to avoid ingesting all sources of iodine. At that point in my medical
career, I did not question these statements. However, years later, when I did question those ideas, I found
the medical literature did not support those conclusions.
In fact, the use of iodine to treat AIT disorders, including Graves’ disease, dates back hundreds of
years. The first treatment of toxic goiter (an earlier term for Graves’ disease) was reported in 1840 by
\bn Basedow and in 1854 by Sokes.- In 1863, the first double-blind cohort study was done with the use
of iodine in a Graves’ disease patient.— Dr. Armand Trousseau inadvertently treated a Graves’ disease
patient with iodine (75-100mg of Lugol’s solution) instead of digitalis—which was the treatment of
choice for Graves’ disease at that time. Dr. Trousseau was surprised as his patient improved. Upon
realizing his mistake, he stopped the iodine and resumed the digitalis treatment. The patient worsened.
Since Dr. Trousseau and the patient were both unaware of what the patient was initially being treated
with-iodine-this could be considered a “double-blind” study. Dr. Trousseau wrote, “In the course of
October, 1853,1 was consulted by a young married lady.. .She was suffering from sub-acute exophthalmic
goiter (i.e., Graves’ disease}.... I found her heart beating at the rate of 140-150 times in the minute...1
wished to administer at the same time tincture of digitalis, but preoccupied with the idea that there would
be some danger in giving iodin (sic), I wrote iodin (sic) instead of digitalis, so that the patient took from
15-20drops of tincture of iodin (sic) a day for a fortnight. When she came back to me her pulse was only
90.1 found out my mistake, and I substituted tincture of digitalis for that of iodin (sic), but, after a
fortnight, the pulse had again gone up to 150, so that I at once returned to the iodin (sic).” Keep in mind
that Dr. Trousseau’s dose of iodine was 94-131mg of iodine per day.
In 1923, Dr. Henry Plummer was administering Lugol’s iodine pre-op (130-195mg) and post-op
(62.5mg) to prevent thyroid storm during surgery of Graves’ disease. He reported that mortality declined
from ‘high’ to zero with the use of iodine. — —
There are many other older research articles touting the benefits of using iodine in treating Graves’
disease.— — — As a treatment for hyperthyroidism, iodine fell out of favor with the advent of radioactive
iodine treatment.
CONVENTIONAL APPROACHES TO AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE:
RADIOACTIVE IODINE
The conventional approach to treating autoimmune thyroid disorders revolves primarily around
alleviating the symptoms of the autoimmune illness-mainly the symptoms of hyperthyroidism This
includes the use of antithyroid drugs (e.g., Propylthiouracil, Methimazole) that block the production of
thyroid hormone. Other conventional treatments include surgery and radioactive iodine. Both of these
destructive modalities work by reducing the volume of thyroid tissue. However, neither of these
treatments addresses the underlying causative factor of these illnesses. In fact, in conventional medicine,
there is rarely a search for an underlying causative factor. If you don’t search for an underlying causative
factor, then how can you formulate an effective treatment plan?
Radioactive iodine is the preferred method in conventional medicine for treating autoimmune thyroid
disorders.— In one of the most respected books on thyroid problems, radioactive iodine is reported as
“effective, safe, and relatively inexpensive”—. Let’s look at all three of these claims.
IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE EFFECTIVE?
If the goal of treating an autoimmune thyroid disorder is to destroy the thyroid gland, then yes,
radioactive iodine is effective. It is well known that iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland. By using a
radioactive form of iodine (I 131 ), the theory is that wherever the radioactive form of iodine binds, the
radioactivity will destroy the surrounding cells. In the case of autoimmune thyroid disorders, the binding
of the radioactive iodine to the thyroid gland will result in the destruction of thyroid tissue by the
radioactive isotope.
If the cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders is too much thyroid tissue that needs to be destroyed,
then the use of radioactive iodine could be considered effective. However, excess thyroid tissue is not the
cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders; it is a consequence of the illness.
Radioactive iodine has never been considered a treatment which addresses the underlying cause of
the illness. Radioactive iodine is solely a palliative treatment for the hyperthyroid symptoms of
autoimmune thyroid problems. I believe there are more effective ways to treat autoimmune thyroid
illnesses using natural items, which will be covered below.
IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE SAFE?
Not only will radioactive iodine bind to the thyroid gland destroying thyroid cells, it will also bind
to other sites in the body besides the thyroid gland. It was established in Chapter 1 that iodine is present
in all of the cells of the body. Radioactive iodine will be concentrated where iodine accumulates in the
body including the breasts in women. With breast cancer at epidemic rates-affecting one in seven
women-I don’t believe a therapy should be used that may potentially increase this rate.
Researchers have reported a 400% increased incidence of death from thyroid cancer due to
radioactive iodine.— Furthermore, a nine year study of 2,793 patients who received radioactive iodine
found:—
1. 56% increase in mortality
2. 40% increased risk of stroke
3. 29% increased risk in mortality from cancer of any sort
To be fair, there are other articles pointing out no increased risk of illness after radioactive iodine
therapy. However, common sense would dictate extreme caution with using radioactive iodine. I feel
radioactive iodine therapy should be the last choice in any thyroid treatment program
RADIOACTIVE IODINE: IS IT INEXPENSIVE?
The cost of radioactive iodine is approximately $3,000-$5,000. Radioactive iodine is an expensive
procedure that does not address the underlying cause of the illness. There are much better alternatives
than radioactive iodine.
SEARCHING FOR AN UNDERLYING CAUSE OF AUTOIMMUNE THYROID
PROBLEMS
In order to formulate an effective, safe, and inexpensive treatment for autoimmune thyroid problems,
one must first search for an underlying cause of the illness. As I discussed in my book, Overcoming
Thyroid Disorders. 3 — Edition , the underlying cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders can be varied.
This can include infections, toxicities, food allergies (e.g., gluten intolerance), and nutritional imbalances.
I believe that iodine deficiency is a causative risk factor in developing an autoimmune thyroid problem
Tracy, 40-years-old, was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease ten years ago after the birth of her
son. Her TSH elevated to ISOmIU/l (normal 0.2-4.7mIU/l) and she felt miserable. “I could not think
clearly. I felt like my brain was in a fog. I would go to the store and not know why I was there. I was
also extremely fatigued”, she said. She had symptoms of hyperthyroid and hypothyroid problems.
“Sometimes my heart would start racing for no apparent reason. I was irritable and moody. I couldn’t
work out because I felt so poorly,” she claimed. Tracy was placed on Synthroid®, but felt no better.
Although her laboratory tests improved and her TSH became normal, none of her symptoms improved.
When I began treating Tracy, I found, through blood testing, that she was suffering from gluten
sensitivity. I placed her on a gluten-free diet that alleviated many of her symptoms. She was also given
nutritional supplements to correct many vitamin and mineral imbalances. Tracy’s thyroid medication
was changed to a more natural thyroid prescription-Nature-Throid® and she improved. “I felt much
better. I could think more clearly. Most importantly, my energy came back,” she said. When I
investigated her iodine status, Tracy was found to be markedly iodine deficient. With the use of a
combination of iodine/iodide, she further improved. Tracy claimed, “When I started taking iodine, my
energy improved. I was sleeping better and dreaming better. I started to lift weights and build muscle
which I haven’t been able to do in a long time. I cannot believe the positive changes that I have seen
with the iodine. ” Tracy’s iodine levels have improved with using a combination of iodine/iodide and
she continues to supplement today.
Marlene, a 45-year-old advertising executive, was diagnosed with Graves’ disease one year ago.
“I woke up one morning and my heart was beating very fast and I felt like I was on too much caffeine,”
she said. Marlene went to her physician who diagnosed her with Graves’ disease. “I asked him what
caused it, and he couldn’t answer me. When he told me he wanted to treat me with radioactive iodine, I
questioned him. I wasn’t satisfied with his answers and I began to look at the alternatives,” she said.
Marlene was diagnosed with iodine deficiency (24% excretion on an iodine loading test—normal
levels >90%). She was also found to have multiple nutritional deficiencies and elevated mercury
levels. I treated Marlene with 50 mg of iodine (Iodoral®) per day as well as vitamins and minerals. In
addition, a mercury detoxification plan was implemented. Furthermore, Marlene improved her diet,
eliminating refined carbohydrates and drinking more water. After four weeks on this therapy, she
noticed a dramatic improvement in her symptoms. “I was thrilled. All of the hyperthyroid symptoms
resolved. I began to feel much better and even my energy level went up. People began asking me what I
was doing, since they thought I looked so much better,” she said. Marlene’s case is not unique. Graves’
disease can be treated effectively with a comprehensive holistic program.
My initial study on the iodine status of 24 patients (see Chapter 2 ) showed that 92% of those with
Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease also had iodine deficiency. Nearly every one of these patients had
dramatic improvements in their symptoms with the use of a combination of iodine/iodide to replace the
body’s deficit. Rarely do I see a negative side effect from the use of iodine and side effects are easily
rectified with adjusting the dosage. Keep in mind I am using iodine as part of a holistic treatment regimen
that includes unrefined salt.
As mentioned previously inorganic, non-radioactive iodine (such as Lugol’s or tableted Lugol’s)
has been used to treat autoimmune thyroid problems for over 100 years. There are numerous reports in the
literature citing the beneficial effects of iodine. In fact, iodine has been shown to reduce the hyperplasia
and hypervascularity characteristic of Graves’ disease.— In cases of hyperthyroidism, milligram doses of
iodine/iodide were used effectively prior to thyroid surgery to decrease thyroid hormone blood levels
and prevent thyroid storm-a complication of thyroid surgery.
There is a concern that the use of iodine in an autoimmune thyroid patient can exacerbate the
symptoms of thyroid toxicosis. Sometimes this claim is made when the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)
test elevates shordy after starting iodine therapy. As previously mentioned, after beginning iodine therapy
in an iodine-deficient patient, it is expected that the TSH level will elevate. How can I make that
statement? Understanding the biochemistry and physiology of the thyroid gland allows me to make that
statement. The laboratory reference range for TSH is from 0.4-4.5mIU/L. An elevated TSH-in the range
of 5-20mIU/L-with normal thyroid hormone, T4 and T3, along with a normal physical exam and history
does not indicate a hypothyroid condition. Rather, it is a normal and expected response from the body to
iodine supplementation. In the majority of patients, the TSH level may remain elevated for three to six
months, before lowering into the reference range. The lowering of TSH indicates the body’s iodine stores
are increasing. More information about this mechanism can be found in the next chapter.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I believe all individuals with a thyroid problem should have their iodine levels checked. If iodine
levels are suboptimal, iodine replacement with the correct form of iodine should be instituted. However,
it is important to make sure that the patient does not have an autonomous functioning thyroid nodule.
Luckily, this condition is rare.
My experience has clearly shown that, for the vast majority of patients, the appropriate use of iodine
in treating thyroid disorders, from hypothyroidism to Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, is not only safe,
but effective and inexpensive. This is a holistic way to search for and treat an underlying cause of thyroid
problems with a safe and natural agent. But, most importantiy, people improve their condition without
experiencing any serious adverse effects.
My clinical experience has shown that when iodine is added to a hypothyroid patient’s regimen, it
may become necessary to adjust their thyroid dosage. Approximately one-third of patients being treated
for hypothyroidism will need to lower their dose of thyroid hormone when an iodine-deficient disorder is
corrected. The other two-thirds of the people taking thyroid hormone can usually maintain their dosage.
.Also, patients with Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease may have to adjust their thyroid medications.
Iodine replacement is not the only therapy for thyroid illness. Nutritional supplementation,
detoxification, drinking adequate amounts of water and dietary changes can also improve these
conditions. For more information on a comprehensive holistic plan to treat thyroid disorders, I refer the
reader to my book, Overcoming Thyroid Disorders. 3 — Edition .
1 Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition in the U.S. Population.
http://www.cdc.gov/nutritionreport/pdf/Nutrition Book complete508 final.pdf#zoom=100 . Accessed
7.4.13
2 Thyroid. Vol. 23. N. 8. 2013. DOI: 10.1089/thy.2013.0012
2 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
— Hollowed et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab 83:3401-3408, 1998
— WHO. Assessment of iodine deficiency disorders and monitoring their elimination, 2nd Edition. 2001.
g Eur. J. Endocr. 2000. Oct; 143(4):485-91
Okerland, M. Medical Applications of Fluorescent Excitation Analysis. 1979
— Wsrchr Ges Heilk. 1840; 6; 197
— Disease of the Heart and Aorta. Hodges and Smith, Bublin. 1854; 278
— Trousseau, A. Lectures on Clinical Medicine. Vol. 1. Lecture XI. Exopthalmic Goiter of Graves’
Disease. London. 1868; 587
— Med Cl North America, 1925; 8:1145-1151
12 J Iowa Med Soc, 1924; 14:65
12 M. Rec. 1921; 99:996-999
M Arch. Int. Med. 1924:34:355-364
15 Arch. Int. Med. 1930; 45; 481-502
— Solomon, B. Current trends in the management of Graves’ disease. J. Clin. Endocrn. Metab.
1990:70:1518
— Cooper, D. In Werner and Ingbar’s The Thyroid. 2000. Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins.
12 J. Insur. Med. 2001; 33(2): 138-42
— Metso, S. The J. of Clin. Endocrin. And Metab. 92(6):2190-2196. 2007
— Aceves, C. Is iodine a gatekeeper of the integrity of the mammary gland? J. of mammary gland biol. and
neoplasia. \bl. 10, No2. April 2005
Chapter 7
The Selenium/Iodine Connection
Chapter 7: The Selenium/Iodine Connection
Selenium is a trace element that is essential for health. It cannot be manufactured in our bodies;
therefore, it must be found in our diets or taken as a supplement. Adequate selenium levels are necessary
for regulating thyroid function and iodine metabolism. Small (microgram) amounts of selenium are
necessary for maintaining optimal levels.
What Foods Provide Selenium?
Plant foods are the world’s major dietary source of selenium The plant-based content of selenium is
dependent on the selenium found in the soil where the plants are grown. Selenium can also be found in
meat and seafood. Nuts can also contain selenium, with Brazil nuts containing the largest amount
(544pg/ounce). In the U.S., meats and breads are common sources of selenium.- The content of selenium
found in common foods is listed in Table 6 .
Table 6: Content of Selenium in Common Food
Food
lAg
Percent DV
Brazil Nuts (1 ounce)
544
780
Tuna (3 ounces)
63
95
Beef, cooked 3.5
ounces
35
50
Cod,cooked 3 ounces
32
45
Turkey, 3.5 ounces
32
45
Bread, whole wheat 1
slice
10
15
Bread, enriched, white
1 slice
4
6
Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) For Selenium
The RDA for selenium is 55pg/day in adults which is based on the dietary selenium required to
maximize the activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase.- -
Selenium Deficiency
In the U.S., it is estimated that most adults ingest about lOOpg/day of selenium, which is above the
RDA.- Although the intake of selenium may appear adequate to maintain glutathione peroxidase activity,
the RDA does not take into account the toxic load that may be affecting the glutathione activity in the body.
The more toxic agents, such as pesticides, mercury, chlorine, and bromine that we come in contact
with, the more glutathione peroxidase will be needed to help to detoxify these agents. Selenium deficiency
can be the rate-limiting step in the body’s production of glutathione.
Studies have found selenium depletion in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s
disease or those with surgical removal of part of the intestines or stomach.- - Selenium deficiency has
been linked to an increased risk of:
• Death from cancer of the lung, colorectal, and prostate - - — —
• Arthritis— —
• Heart disease and cardiomyopathy —
• HIV disease progression
The exact mechanism of selenium deficiency causing the above illnesses has not been elucidated.
One hypothesis is that selenium acts as an antioxidant (in part, through glutathione peroxidase) and can
counter the oxidant damage caused by various illnesses.
Selenium Toxicity
Selenium has a narrow margin of safety. Unlike vitamin C, where large doses are rarefy harmful,
larger doses of selenium can cause adverse effects. Selenosis is a condition of high blood levels of
selenium (>100pg/dl). Symptoms of selenosis include: hair loss, fatigue, irritability, garlic breath odor,
and mild nerve damage.— The Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences has set the
upper intake level of selenium at 400pg/day for adults to prevent the risk of selenosis.— My 21 years of
practicing nutritional medicine has shown 100-400pg/day of selenium to be a safe range. These doses
have not caused selenosis in any patients.
Selenium and Iodine
Selenium is a required component of at least 11 enzymes. Without selenium, these enzymes would be
nonfunctional. Life itself is not possible without selenium and the selenoenzymes. This chapter will focus
on two of the selenoenzymes: glutathione peroxidase and iodothyronine deiodinase.
Glutathione Peroxidase
Four separate glutathione peroxidase enzymes have been identified. Each of these enzymes has
antioxidant capabilities and protects the body horn oxidant damage. Recall horn Chapter 5 . the oxidation
of iodide (shown below).
The Oxidation of Iodide
Oxidation (H 2 0 2 + TPO)
Iodide-► iodine
The oxidation reaction is catalyzed by the interaction of H 2 0 2 and thyroperoxidase (TPO).
Furthermore, we established that too much hydrogen peroxide could damage TPO and cause Hashimoto’s
disease.
One of the controlling features of this reaction is the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione
peroxidase can react with H 2 0 2 to reduce hydrogen peroxide to water. Figure 14 illustrates this principle.
FIGURE 14: Glutathione Peroxidase
Glutathione Peroxidase
with Selenium
2H 2 0 2
02+ 2H 2 0
If there is not adequate selenium available, there will be insufficient glutathione peroxidase to
reduce and neutralize excess H 2 0 2 . Excess hydrogen peroxide can cause the oxidative damage to TPO
and initiate the start of autoimmune thyroiditis. Animal studies have agreed with this model.—
IODOTHYRONINE DEIODINASES
Iodothyronine deiodinases are enzymes that are responsible for activating and deactivating thyroid
hormone. These agents work by removing an iodine molecule. For example, the thyroid gland releases a
large amount of the inactive form of thyroid hormone T4 into the circulation. T4 has to be converted to T3
to become the active form of thyroid hormone. Iodothyronine deiodinase, a selenium-containing enzyme,
is responsible for this conversion as shown in Figure 15 . Selenium deficiency has been shown to
decrease deiodinase protein and activity.—
FIGURE 15: Iodothyronine Deiodinase
Iodothyronine
T4 (Inactive Thyroid Hormone)
Deiodinase with
Selenium
T3 (Active Thyroid Hormone)
How Much Selenium Should You Take?
Selenium levels can be checked through the hair, serum, or nail clippings. I have found hair selenium
levels very reliable. In order to achieve the best results, I suggest working with a health care practitioner
knowledgeable about natural therapies. Supplementing with selenium in doses of 100-200pg/day has
proven safe and effective at correcting selenium deficiencies.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Selenium is a very important trace element. Adequate selenium levels are necessary to maintain
optimal thyroid function. If selenium is deficient, inadequate glutathione peroxidase will be produced.
This can set the stage for autoimmune thyroid disorders to begin as the thyroid gland can be damaged by
H 2 0 2 . Adequate selenium levels can ensure optimal glutathione peroxidase production and help protect
the thyroid gland from oxidative damage.
Selenium is also important for activating thyroid hormone (via iodothyronine deiodinase, Figure 15 ).
I have treated many patients with hypothyroid symptoms that resolve when the underlying nutritional
deficiencies, such as selenium deficiency, are rectified.
If you have side effects with iodine therapy, I suggest looking at selenium deficiency as a possible
cause. If your selenium levels are low, supplementing with selenium may correct the problem
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, www.nih.gov/factsheets/seleniumasp . Accessed 8.19.07
2 NIH
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes of Vitamin C, Vitamin E,
Selenium and Carotenoids. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press; 2000:284-324
- Bialostosky K, Wright JD, Kennedy-Stephenson J, McDowell M, Johnson CL. Dietary intake of
macronutrients, micronutrients and other dietary constituents: United States 1988-94. Vital Heath Stat.
11(245) ed: National Center for Health Statistics, 2002.
- Kuroki, F. Selenium is depleted in Crohn’s disease on enteral nutrition. Dig. Dise. 2003; 21:266-70
- Bjerre, B. Hyposelaemia: Patients with gastrointestinal disease are at risk. J. Intern. Med. 1989; 225;
85-8
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. IBID. Accessed 8.19.07
- Russo, MW. Plasma Selenium levels and the risk of colorectal adenomas. Nutt. Cancer. 1997; 28125-9
- Knekt, P. Is low selenium status a risk factor for lung cancer. Am J. Epidem 1998; 148:975-82
- Fleet, JC. Dietary selenium repletion may reduce cancer incidence in people at high risk who live in
areas with low soil selenium Nutt. Rev. 1997:55:277-9
Garland, M. Prospective study of toenail selenium levels and cancer among women. J. Nat’l Cancer
Inst. 1995:87: 497-505
- Stone J, Doube A, Dudson D, Wallace J. Inadequate calcium, folic acid, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium
intake in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Results of a dietary survey. Semin Arthritis Rheum 1997; 27:180-5.
- Kose K, Dogan P, Kardas Y, Saraymen R. Plasma selenium levels in rheumatoid arthritis. Biol Trace
ElemRes 1996; 53:51-6.
- Gey KF. Vitamins E plus C and interacting co-nutrients required for optimal health. A critical and
constructive review of epidemiology and supplementation data regarding cardiovascular disease and
cancer. Biofactors 1998; 7:113-74
— Godlhaber, SB. Trace element risk assessment: Essentiality vs. Toxicity. Reg. Toxic. And Pharm. 2003;
38; 232-42
— NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. IBID. Accessed 8.19.07
— Hotz, C. Dietary iodine and selenium interact to affect thyroid hormone metabolism of rats. J. of Nutr.
Vol. 127, No. 6. June 1997 p. 1214-1218
— Huang, K. The uptake of Na-selenite in rat brain. Localization of new glutathione peroxidases in the rat
brain. Biol. Trace. Elem. Res. 46: 91
Chapter 8
Iodine. Breast Cancer. and Fibrocystic Breast Disease
CHAPTER 8: IODINE , BREAST CANCER AND FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Joan, a 60-year-old English teacher, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1989. She refused
conventional therapy and looked for other options. She found a holistic doctor who recommended that
she take 2mg/day of iodine in addition to a regimen of vitamins and minerals. She was also diagnosed
with hypothyroidism and treated with thyroid hormone. Over the next ten years, she felt well and
continued to teach. The tumor metastasized in early 2005. Joan’s tumor markers also increased and
she felt very fatigued. She lost 25 pounds of weight by July 2005. “I felt like I was dying,” she said.
After she read of Dr. Abraham’s research on iodine, she found a doctor to prescribe iodine for her. She
increased the iodine dose from 2mg/day to 50-62.5mg/day using a tablet form ofLugol’s (Iodoral®). As
she increased the iodine, she was able to stop the thyroid hormone. After six weeks of taking the higher
iodine dose, Joan had a PET scan. The PET scan showed that all of the existing tumors were
disintegrating. The central areas of the tumors were disintegrating after just 42 days of taking a
higher dose of iodine. “I am so grateful for this information as it is surely saving my life,” Joan
claimed.
Joan’s case is not unique. Iodine can cause tumors to shrink and necrose from the center. I have
observed similar results with nodules and cysts in the thyroid, ovaries, and uterus after instituting
orthoiodosupplementation.
This chapter will explore the relationship between iodine deficiency and disorders of the breast,
including fibrocystic breast disease and breast cancer as well as other cancers. For over 60 years, it has
been known that iodine concentrates in and is secreted by the mammary glands. The breasts are one of the
body’s main storage and utilization sites for iodine. An adequate iodine level is necessary for the
development and maintenance of normal breast architecture. Milk from lactating breasts contains four
times more of the ingested iodine than the amount taken up by the thyroid gland.-
Animal studies have shown conclusively that an iodine deficient state can alter the structure and
function of the breasts. After my own research and study, I concur with several investigators that iodine
deficiency is a causative factor in breast cancer and fibrocystic breast disease. I believe it is essential
that women have their iodine levels tested, and if it is shown there is an iodine deficiency, iodine
supplementation should be initiated.
The breasts are one of the body’s main storage sites for iodine in the body. In an iodine-deficient
state, the thyroid gland and the breasts will compete for what little iodine is available. Therefore, this
will leave the thyroid gland and the breasts iodine depleted and can set the stage for illnesses such as
goiter, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroid illness, and breast illnesses including cancer and cystic breast
disease. In addition, other glandular tissues, such as the ovaries which contain the second highest
concentration of iodine in the body, will also be depleted in an iodine-deficient state.
IODINE: THE ANTICANCER AGENT
Iodine has many anticancer properties. Cancer cells, unlike normal cells, do not have a normal life
cycle; they just keep dividing over and over. Normal cells have a life cycle, and when they eventually die,
they are replaced with a new cell. This process of timed cellular death is known as apoptosis. Iodine has
been shown to induce apoptosis (death) in breast and thyroid cancer cells. However, this apoptotic effect
will be negated if a goitrogen is given.- More about apoptosis is found in Chapter 5 .
How does iodine provide this apoptotic effect? One mechanism may be the iodination of lipids.
Lipids are fats that make up our cell membranes throughout our body. Iodine can become incorporated
into lipids (fats) inside the cell. These substances are known as iodo-lipids. When iodine is incorporated
into the lipids, it helps to stabilize them and also helps each cell to maintain a normal life cycle (see
Chapter 5 for more information on iodo-lipids).
Iodine has been shown to be a potent antioxidant even more effective than vitamin E, phosphatidyl
choline, and vitamin C.- - - As with vitamin C, iodine can function as both an antioxidant as well as an
oxidant in the body. This dual effect makes it a strong anticancer agent. One of the best signs of health in
the body is a balance between antioxidants and oxidants. Items like iodine and vitamin C can help
maintain that balance, and therefore, are some of the most powerful anti-cancer agents known.
Delores, an active 73-year-old woman, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003. She refused
conventional therapy and wanted an alternative treatment. “Why would I do chemotherapy and
radiation when the doctors told me that these treatments may not help? They could not give me good
statistics that these treatments would prolong my life. When I asked them to help me find the cause of
this illness, they just had a blank stare in their eyes. When I read about the relationship between iodine
and breast cancer, I asked my doctor about it and he said, “There is enough iodine in salt”. When I
saw Delores, I measured her iodine and bromide levels as part of a study I was conducting on breast
cancer patients. Her results are summarized below.
Delores: Urinary Excretion of Iodide and Bromide Before and After Taking Iodine
mg/24hour
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Pre Post 1 day Post 30
□ Iodide
□ Bromide
50mg I days
50mg/day I
Delores’ initial results show that she was excreting large amounts of the toxic halide bromide at
the same time that her body was very deficient in iodine. After taking 50mg of iodine/iodide
(Iodoral®), her bromide excretion increased and still was elevated after 30 days of taking iodine. At
the same time that her body was absorbing iodine, it was also excreting the toxic halide bromine.
Delores was treated with a holistic treatment program that included vitamins, minerals, and
bioidentical hormones in addition to other natural items to support her detoxification pathways. This
holistic regimen included the use of Celtic Sea Salt® and iodine. The salt and iodine were utilized to
help the body detoxify bromide. After three months on this program, Delores felt significantly
improved. “My energy level was so much better. I can now do ten times what I could do before, ” she
said.
Delores had a repeat ultrasound 18 months after starting the iodine-based therapy and the
radiologist reported on the ultrasound, “It would seem, therefore, that these malignancies have
diminished considerably in size. The breast cancer appears considerably diminished when compared
to previous ultrasound. Interval improvement is definitely seen. ”
Update on Delores’ condition: It has now been nearly two years and Delores has been taking
iodine as well as the nutrient therapies described. Delores just had a follow-up mammogram and
ultrasound which failed to show any abnormality. Both were read by the radiologist as normal and she
was recommended to have yearly mammogram screening.
New 5 th Edition Update on Delores: Delores is still doing well with no signs of breast cancer. I
see her twice per year for routine follow-up. At our last visit she reported that she was feeling well. “I
am glad I followed a natural program. Who knows what all those toxins would have done to me,” she
said.
There is a wealth of research showing the connection between iodine deficiency and breast cancer.
We should be searching for underlying cause(s) of cancer and formulating a treatment program tailored to
addressing the underlying cause(s). The “war” on breast cancer began 35 years ago. The progress in
treating breast cancer with chemotherapy surgery and radiation has been dismal. Survival rates for breast
cancer victims are virtually unchanged over the last 70 years-, even with the use of mammograms,
surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Iodine deficiency as well as other toxicities (especially the toxic halides bromine and fluoride) must
be investigated. Perhaps rectifying iodine deficiency will be the missing piece of the puzzle to solving the
riddle of breast cancer. Delores’ results have been repeated over and over in my practice. I believe all
women need to be evaluated for their iodine status before they reach the stage of breast cancer.
ESTROGENS AND IODINE: THE CONNECTION
This section will deal with the relationship between iodine and estrogens. Estrogens are a class of
steroid hormones produced and secreted in both men and women. In men, most of the estrogen is
produced in the adrenal glands, fat tissue, and liver. The amount of estrogen in men is ten times lower than
it is in women.
In women, estrogens control female sexual development including promoting the growth and function
of the female sexual organs such as the ovaries, uterus, and breasts. The ovaries produce most of the
estrogen in women, with smaller amounts produced in the adrenal glands and the fat tissue.
DIFFERENT FORMS OF ESTROGEN
There are three major types of estrogen produced in the female body: estrone (El), estradiol (E2),
and estriol (E3). Estriol is a much weaker estrogen than either estrone or estradiol. Research has shown
that estriol maybe able to prevent breast cancer in mice.- Furthermore, estriol is less stimulating to breast
tissue than either estradiol or estrone and may have a protective effect for breast cancer. My colleague,
Jonathan Wright, M.D., measured the estrogen levels in healthy twenty to forty-year-old women and found
that estriol was produced at much larger amounts than either estrone or estradiol. - Estrogen replacement
therapy has been promoted to help women with menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and other illnesses.
Common sense would argue that to achieve the greatest benefit from estrogen replacement therapy, we
should try to mimic the body’s own production of estrogen. In other words, we should use the same
proportions of estrone, estradiol, and estriol normally produced in the healthy body. Estrogen production
in the body can be monitored by measuring the amounts of estrone, estradiol, and estriol that are present in
biological fluid. When there are imbalances in estrogen production, such as lowered amounts of estriol
and larger amounts of estrone and estradiol, problems such as fibrocystic breasts, cancer, and weight gain
may develop.
Dr. Wright has reported compelling data that iodine, in the form of Lugol’s solution (iodine and
iodide) can help maintain the correct balance of the three estrogens. Specifically, Dr. Wright has reported
that Lugol’s solution will help the body metabolize the estrogens to favor the safer form of estrogen—
estriol. My experience has found the same results; the use of iodine helps to maintain a balanced estrogen
ratio in favor of estriol.
For women, a balance of estrogens is vitally important for numerous bodily functions including
ensuring optimal function of the brain, breast development, and lubrication of the skin. In addition,
estrogen balance helps to ensure strong bones and may help to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Imbalances in estrogen production are associated with weight gain, mood swings, and disorders such as
diabetes as well as cancer of the breast, ovary, and uterus. Estrogen balance is impossible to maintain
when there is iodine deficiency present. For more information on the use of estrogens and other natural
hormones, I refer the reader to my book, The Miracle of Natural Hormones. 3 — Edition.
IODINE ALTERS GENE EXPRESSION IN THE BREASTS
Researchers have recendy reported that the combination of iodine/iodide (e.g., Lugol’s solution) has
been shown to alter gene expression in estrogen-responsive breast cancer cells. They found that iodine
down-regulated (lowered) several estrogen responsive genes. They also reported that iodine increased
BRCA1 activity. BRCA1 is a gene that modulates estrogen activity in the breast. People with
abnormalities in BRCA1 are at a markedly increased risk for breast cancer. Finally, the same researchers
reported that iodine/iodide therapy “.. .could enhance the efficacy of Tamoxifen therapy.. .thus preventing
or slowing the development of Tamoxifen resistance.”—
This is a very important study showing that iodine can favorably influence the gene expression in
breast cancer. Future research will undoubtedly build on this concept.
IODINE DEFICIENCY AND THE BREASTS
Iodine deficiency has been shown to produce specific changes in the breast tissue of rats. Studies
dating back nearly 40 years ago show that iodine deficiency in rats produces the exact precancerous
changes seen in humans—dysplasia and hyperplasia.— — Furthermore, with long-term iodine depletion,
more atypical changes in rat breast tissue occur.— This is the precursor to breast cancer.
Dr. Bernard Eskin, one of the world’s foremost researchers on iodine and the breast, writes, “In all
these studies, termination of dietary iodine restriction.. .results in a variable modest return toward the
normal {breast} structure.”—
Dr. Eskin has studied the effects of estrogen and iodine in rats. He has found that rats need an
adequate level of iodine in order for estrogen to perform its normal function in breast tissue.—
Researchers have demonstrated that rats given certain carcinogens will develop breast cancer. When
iodine is given along with the carcinogens, tumor formation is blocked.— — These studies would indicate
that iodine has the ability to block cancer progression in the breast tissue.
It is known that the ovaries concentrate a large amount of iodine. After the thyroid, the ovaries have
the second largest concentration of iodine in the body. Iodine deficiency produces changes in the ovarian
production of estrogens as well as changes in the estrogen receptors of the breasts. In an iodine-deficient
state, research has shown that ovarian estrogen production increases, while estrogen receptors in the
breast increase their sensitivity to estrogens.— — Both of these conditions will increase the risk of
developing pathology of the breasts including breast cancer.
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHOR: ESTROGEN AND IODINE AND THE CONNECTION TO
CANCER
Iodine deficiency has many consequences. First, it causes estrogen production to increase. Iodine
deficiency also leads to an increased sensitivity of breast tissue to estrogen. All of the above conditions
will increase the chances of developing disease(s) of the breast including breast cancer. When you factor
in our exposure to environmental estrogens, including xenoestrogens found in plastics, and pesticides, as
well as meat and dairy products, it is no wonder that hormone-sensitive cancers like breast (as well as
prostate, ovarian, and uterine) cancer have reached epidemic proportions. Research in animals has shown
that the correction of iodine deficiency results in abnormal breast tissue changing back to normal breast
tissue. My clinical experience has shown the same positive results occur with my human patients. This
chapter will explore this concept in more detail.
FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Fibrocystic breast disease is a condition whereby the breasts have cysts that are usually painful to
touch. Up to two-thirds of American women suffer from fibrocystic breast disease. In fibrocystic breast
disease, the texture of the cysts can vary from soft to firm. Many times these cysts can change size and
shape during the menstrual cycle, and they can cause discomfort premenstrually. Although fibrocystic
breast disease is generally thought of as a benign condition, there are many physicians who feel that the
abnormal breast architecture found in fibrocystic disease is a precursor for breast cancer, and this has
been confirmed in various studies.— — —
Estrogens have been implicated as a causative factor for fibrocystic disease and breast cancer. In
fact, one of the most common treatments in conventional medicine for fibrocystic disease is to use birth
control pills to suppress the ovaries and lower the amount of circulating estrogen in the body.
As repeated hormonal cycles progress, oftentimes the fibrocystic changes in the breast will worsen.
The breasts can become chronically inflamed and hardened. Many women suffer terribly with this illness.
Dietary factors can also worsen fibrocystic breast disease. Caffeine and foods that contain trans¬
fatty acids can exacerbate fibrocystic breast disease. Eliminating caffeine and eating foods rich in healthy
fats, including essential fatty acids, will help alleviate many of the complaints of fibrocystic breast
disease.
Also, vitamin and mineral supplementation can alleviate this condition. Both vitamin E and vitamin
A have both been shown in studies to improve fibrocystic breasts.
Iodine has also been shown to be extremely effective in treating and preventing fibrocystic breasts.—
In fact, iodine has been the most researched mineral in treating fibrocystic breast disease.
MaryAnn, age 45, works as a nurse at a local hospital. MaryAnn suffered from fibrocystic breast
disease for over 15years. She said, “My breasts feel like two rocks. I can’t do aerobics or exercise
heavily because the bouncing causes tremendous pain.” MaryAnn was going to a specialized cystic
breast clinic at the University of Michigan. Frequently, she was having breast cysts drained, only to
have them reappear a short time later. Dietary changes, including removing the caffeine did help
somewhat. MaryAnn was so miserable she was contemplating a bilateral mastectomy. MaryAnn was
found to be severely iodine deficient (iodine challenge test showed 27% excretion with normal levels
>90%). She was treated with Iodoral® 50mg per day and within one month had a dramatic change in
her condition. She called me on the phone and reported, “Dr. Brownstein, I was at the University of
Michigan clinic yesterday and the doctor told me he thought my breasts weren’t mine. The two rocks I
had are now soft and normal feeling. All of the cysts are gone and all of the pain is gone. This has been
a miracle for me. I can’t believe one nutrient could have such a positive impact on my life. ”
New 5 th Edition update on Mary Ann: Mary Ann comes into my office twice per year for routine
care. She recently reported, “I am feeling fabulous since I started taking iodine. My mammograms are
now normal. ” Mary Ann has no signs of fibrocystic breast disease as long as she takes iodine.
Darlene, at age 39, suffered from fibrocystic breast disease for over five years. “Sometimes I am
absolutely miserable. I cannot stand anything touching my breasts. It feels like there is a tourniquet
around them,” she said. Darlene’s symptoms would get worse around her menses. She said, “My
husband knows not to get within five feet of me. If I bump into anything, I feel like crying. ” Darlene
was told to alter her diet and give up caffeine and chocolate, which did help some of her symptoms.
“The change in the diet did help, but I was still miserable,” she claimed. When I checked Darlene’s
iodine levels, her iodine-loading tests showed a 50% excretion (normal is 90%). After two weeks of
supplementing with an iodine/iodide combination (Iodoral®), Darlene’s condition rapidly improved. “I
just woke up one morning and I wasn’t in pain. I could not believe it. I feel like I have been given my
life back,” she said. In addition, the iodine significantly improved her energy and mood levels.
Darlene says, “I can’t believe how much better I feel. ”
MaryAnn and Darlene’s cases are typical of many with fibrocystic breast disease. Usually the
improvement in fibrocystic symptoms occurs rapidly when there is an iodine-deficient state present.
THYROID DISEASE, IODINE, AND CANCER
For well over 100 years, iodine deficiency has been associated with a swelling of the thyroid or
goiter. Goiter has also been associated with cancers of the breast, stomach, esophagus, ovaries, and
uterus.— — — My colleague, Jorge Flechas, M.D., reports a “definite increase in the incidence of breast
cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer, and thyroid cancer with the presence of iodine deficiency.”- I
have seen similar results in my practice.
BREAST CANCER AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
Because breast cancer is occurring at epidemic rates, it is important to discuss this topic again. The
relationship between hypothyroidism and breast cancer has been reported for over 100 years. In fact, the
first reported connection between these two illnesses was mentioned in 1896. Although there has not been
a consensus opinion on the relationship between breast cancer and hypothyroidism, many researchers feel
there is a direct connection.
Researchers have found that hypothyroidism is much more common in women with breast cancer.—
— Other researchers have found that the use of thyroid hormones may cause a higher incidence of breast
cancer.- Although there has been a great controversy in medicine on verifying the relationship between
hypothyroidism and breast cancer, my experience has shown that there is a connection.
It is known that hypothyroidism predisposes one to a poorly functioning immune system. This can set
the stage for serious illnesses such as cancer. One would think that the treatment of hypothyroidism with
thyroid hormone would improve the condition of breast cancer, since it should improve the functioning of
the immune system. However, this has not been shown to be the case in some studies. In fact, some studies
point to an exacerbation of breast cancer when thyroid hormones are used to treat a hypothyroid
condition.
One study found that hypothyroid women who took thyroid hormone had a 50% increased risk of
breast cancer.— Furthermore, as compared to women who were taking thyroid hormone for less than 15
years, the same researchers reported a 200% increased risk of breast cancer in women who were taking
thyroid hormone for more than 15 years. The results of this study are illustrated in Figure 16 . page 168 .—
WHY WOULD THE TREATMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK
OF BREAST CANCER? THE IODINE CONNECTION
When hypothyroidism is present, the body is in a hypometabolic state. In other words, all bodily
functions slowdown and the consequences of this state include cold extremities, dry skin, fatigue, brain
fog and weight gain.
□ 1-5 years
■ 5-15 years
□ >15 years
Figure 16: Increased Risk of Breast Cancer the Longer Women Took Thyroid Hormone
Incidence of Breast Cancer
When thyroid hormone is ingested, it results in an increased metabolic state which reverses all of the
above conditions.
ATP is the body’s “high octane” energy source. Thyroid hormone utilizes ATP to increase the body’s
metabolic rate. This increased metabolism helps the body produce more heat, lose weight, overcome
fatigue, etc. If thyroid hormone is given to an iodine-deficient patient, the increased metabolic rate due to
thyroid hormone will actually increase the body’s need for iodine as well as decreasing the ability of the
cells of the body to concentrate iodine.
Iodine uptake by the cells is an energy dependent process which requires ATP. Thyroid hormones
use the energy available for the synthesis of ATP to produce heat. This effect lowers the available ATP for
cellular uptake of iodine by the target cells. If there are lowered ATP levels in the body, the target cells
have a more difficult time concentrating iodine.
Finally, if a hypothyroid condition is treated with thyroid hormone and there is also iodine
deficiency present, the use of thyroid hormone will exacerbate an iodine-deficient condition. In other
words, if you treat with thyroid hormone without first correcting for iodine deficiency, you will increase
the body’s need for iodine and worsen the iodine-deficient problem that is already present.
The only logical explanation that ties the treatment of hypothyroidism with an increased risk of
developing breast cancer would be the presence of an iodine deficiency.
In simpler terms, thyroid hormones introduced into the body will raise the body’s need for iodine.
The breasts, like the thyroid gland, have an advanced system for absorbing and storing iodine. When there
is iodine deficiency, the breasts and the thyroid gland enlarge to compensate for that deficiency. In both
cases, iodine deficiency induces hyperplasia, which is a precancerous lesion. This will set the stage for
thyroid and breast diseases, including cancer of the thyroid gland and the breasts.
If iodine deficiency is present, the use of thyroid hormone supplementation without first correcting
(or simultaneously correcting) the iodine deficit will exacerbate the body’s deficit of iodine. The result of
this can be an increase in disorders caused by iodine deficiency such as cancers of the breast and thyroid.
THE BREASTS AND IODINE
The therapeutic use of iodine in treating breast cancer was first described in the medical literature in
1896.— There is a direct relationship between breast cancer (as well as goiter) and regions of the world
where iodine deficiency is prevalent. Countries such as Japan and Iceland have higher intakes of iodine
and lower rates of goiter and breast cancer. On the other hand, countries such as the United States,
Mexico, and Thailand have lower iodine intake and higher incidences of both breast cancer and goiter.—
Some countries such as Poland, Switzerland, Australia, and Russia have been found to have high rates of
breast cancer associated with localized pockets of iodine deficiency. In the United States, a correlation
has been found between higher mortality rates from breast cancer and areas of iodine deficiency (e.g.,
Great Lakes region).—
Cathy, 49 years old, was diagnosed with breast cancer one year ago. She said, “I was devastated.
I thought I took good care of myself and my life was shattered. When I asked the surgeon, ‘How did I
get it?’He answered, ‘I don’t know’. His only concern was doing surgery and getting me ready for
chemotherapy. I was not satisfied with that. ” Cathy did elect to have a bilateral mastectomy and
chemotherapy, but still searched for why this may have happened to her. When I examined Cathy, I
found her to have a serum iodine level below the detection limits as well as having a very low iodine
loading test — 22% (normal > 90%). In treating her with iodine/iodide (Iodoral®), she noticed an
immediate improvement in her overall health. “I was having fatigue and leg cramps. The fatigue was
debilitating. I felt like an old woman,” she said. Three weeks after starting the iodine, both conditions
improved dramatically. “It was a miracle. The leg cramps and leg pains melted away but, more
importantly, the fatigue left. My brain started functioning again, and I began to feel like my old self.
Even my friends began asking me what I was taking, since I looked so much better,” she said.
Iodine has been found to be necessary for the maintenance of normal breast tissue in both animals
and humans.— — — —
Iodine was found to have a suppressive effect on the development and the size of mammary tumors
in rats.— This suppressive effect was enhanced with the use of progesterone. The enhancement of iodine
uptake with progesterone has also been found in other tissue including the uterus and the ovary. - These
studies prove that the optimal use of iodine is best undertaken as part of a comprehensive holistic
treatment program, which emphasizes balancing the hormonal system as well as correcting nutrient
deficits. For more information on bioidentical hormones, I refer the reader to my book, The Miracle of
Natural Hormones. 3 — Edition.
THE BREASTS AND TOXIC HALIDES: IS THERE AN ASSOCIATION WITH
BREAST CANCER?
The halides are a group of elements that share a similar size and shape. Chapter 11 will cover this
topic in much more detail. Fluoride, bromine, iodide, chloride, and astatide make up this family. Iodine
and chloride are the only halides that have therapeutic effects in the body.
Bromide is a toxic element that has a chemical structure very similar to iodine. This similarity can
cause bromine to bind to iodine receptors and possibly interfere with iodine transport in the body.
Bromine is found in many food items such as bakery products, and some sodas, as well as many
prescription items. In addition, bromine is found in many fire-retardant chemicals added to furniture,
carpets, etc. Crops are sprayed with bromine as a fumigant for agriculture. When there is iodine
deficiency present, bromine toxicity will be exacerbated.
Fluoride is put in the water supply, toothpaste, and many drinks as a preventive measure against
dental caries. There is little evidence to support the idea that fluoride prevents cavities. Furthermore,
there is much research that shows that fluoride (in the amounts ingested by drinking fluoridated water) can
cause dental fluorosis, hip fractures, bone cancer, and other negative effects. Fluoride toxicity will be
covered in more detail in Chapter 11 .
I undertook a study in my office to look at the difference in iodine, fluoride, and bromine levels in
eight women with breast cancer versus ten women without breast cancer. Please refer to Chapter 11 for a
further discussion of this study and the results.
This study showed that all of the women tested—those with breast cancer as well as those without
breast cancer—had low iodine levels. Those women with breast cancer were found to have much larger
amounts of the toxic halides bromine and fluoride as compared to the women without breast cancer. The
toxicity of bromine and fluoride are exacerbated in an iodine-deficient state. Perhaps the reason we have
an epidemic of breast cancer is not only due to iodine deficiency, but also to the toxicity of the halogens
fluoride and bromine which inhibit iodine uptake by the tissues of the body. Effective breast cancer
therapies will not be realized until the causative factors of breast cancer are more thoroughly studied.
THE JAPANESE: A POPULATION WITH A HIGH IODINE INTAKE AND A
LOW RATE OF BREAST DISEASE AND GOITER
It has been estimated that the mainland Japanese ingest approximately 13.8mg of iodine per day,
which is over 100 times the RDA. - Japanese from the coastal areas ingest more iodine than the average
inland Japanese consume. The mainland Japanese receive much of their iodine from seaweed, which is
known to concentrate iodine.
What is the effect of ingesting this larger amount of iodine? The Japanese, who consume a large
amount of iodine by U.S. RDA standards, have remarkably lower levels of breast, endometrial, and
ovarian cancers. In addition, there is a significantly lower amount of fibrocystic breast disease in
Japanese women who consume the larger amount of iodine. Over 30 years ago, research showed that
Japanese women who move to the United States have a higher rate and mortality of breast, endometrial,
and ovarian cancer as compared to mainland Japanese women.— I believe this increase in mortality of
Japanese women is due to falling iodine levels.
It has been known for over 50 years that there is an association between breast cancer and iodine
levels. There have been many articles written in medical literature pointing towards a direct relationship
between low iodine levels and the development of breast cancer in various regions of the world,
including the United States.— —
Joyce, 52 years old, was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. “I thought I was in great
shape. I used to exercise, and I watched what I ate. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was
devastated,” she said. Joyce did not want to undergo chemotherapy and radiation. Joyce claimed, “I
did not have a chemotherapy and radiation deficiency. I have done a lot of reading on breast cancer,
and I was worried about the side effects from the chemotherapy and radiation. I wanted to search for
an underlying cause and find a treatment for that. ” Joyce had a long history of fibrocystic breast
disease and dense breasts on a mammogram. My initial examination and laboratory workup of Joyce
revealed an enlarged thyroid gland (i.e., goiter). Laboratory tests showed evidence of a poorly
functioning immune system (low natural killer cells and low immunoglobulin levels as well as a low
white blood cell count). An iodine-loading test showed Joyce was extremely low (12% excretion with
normal levels >90%). Joyce was treated with a combination of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®) four pills per
day (50mg of iodide/iodine) for three months. After three months, her iodine-loading test improved to
normal and her dose of iodine was lowered to two pills per day (25mg). During that time, Joyce
noticed an improvement in her energy and overall better health. “I felt wonderful once I started taking
iodine. My energy level zoomed up and my metabolism increased. All my friends started asking me
what I was doing, since I looked so much bettershe said. Joyce was also treated holistically with a
detoxification program and given vitamins and minerals. Her laboratory markers all improved as well.
Her doctors felt the changes in her breasts. “My doctor told me that my breast tissue felt much softer.
He said that my breasts felt much healthier,” she claimed. With her improved laboratory markers, I
feel Joyce will have a better chance to overcome her illness. Was iodine deficiency the underlying
cause of her cancer? I don’t have the definitive answer to that question, but an iodine-deficient state
will not only set the stage for breast illness such as cancer to develop, it will make it extremely
difficult for the body to overcome such illnesses. Update on Joyce: After three years of iodine
supplementation, Joyce’s iodine loading test is now normal (92% excretion). She continues to feel well
and there have been no signs that the cancer is progressing. The initial lesions seen on radiologic
exam have gotten slightly smaller. Joyce is seen by a surgeon and she undergoes radiologic tests every
six months.
New 5 th Edition Update on Joyce: Joyce is still supplementing with iodine and feeling well. There
are still no signs of progression of the cancer. Joyce recently stated, “The best decision I made was to
go the holistic route. The iodine has really helped me out. I am thankful for how good I feel. ”
IODINE DEFICIENCY AND PROSTATE CANCER
Although the research is not as complete as it is for breast cancer, I believe the cause of prostate
cancer in men is similar to the cause of breast cancer in women. Japanese men have much lower rates of
prostate cancer than American men. Japanese men that move to the United States have a higher rate of
prostate cancer than mainland Japanese. This analogy is similar to the increased incidence of breast
cancer in Japanese women who move to the United States. I believe iodine deficiency is the link (or at
least one of the links) and is responsible for the increased risk of prostate cancer. Mainland Japanese men
have a much lower prostate cancer mortality rate than American men because of their higher iodine
intake. When iodine levels fall, the rates of prostate cancer will begin to increase. I believe future
research needs to be directed in this area.
ANIMALS IN AN IODINE-DEFICIENT STATE WILL DEVELOP BREAST
CANCER
Animal research has shown that in an iodine-deficient state, whether by diet or drug therapy, animal
breast tissue will show signs of developing breast cancer. The longer the animals are maintained in an
iodine-deficient state, the more likely their breast tissue will become cancerous.— — Researchers have
concluded, “It thus appears that maintenance of the optimum structure and function of the breasts requires
the presence of continuous and specific amounts of iodine.”— The use of estrogens causes worsening
changes in the breast tissue, with additional signs of cancer being present upon examination of tissue.— In
fact, iodine deficiency is found to enhance the response of animal breast tissue to estrogen injections.—
The epidemic of breast cancer we are currently facing could be explained by the combination of iodine
deficiency coupled with the increasing exposure to xenoestrogens. Xenoestrogens are estrogen-like
substances that can disrupt our own estrogen receptors. Examples of xenoestrogens include environmental
toxins such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates from plastics. We are exposed to increasing amounts of
synthetic hormones from estrogen-like hormones (i.e., xenoestrogens) fed to conventionally-raised
animals. These synthetic hormones make their way into our food products. With one in seven women
suffering with breast cancer and one in three men having prostate cancer, things may look bleak.
However, there is hope. Eating an organic diet free of food contaminated with synthetic hormones is
a good start. The next step is to reverse an iodine-deficient condition and maintain iodine sufficiency.
Iodine deficiency disorders can easily be corrected with the addition of iodine to the diet. The
correction of iodine deficiency in animals results in changing their breast tissue to assume a more normal
architecture. I have observed similar results in many of my patients.
Many other tissues in the body utilize iodine besides the thyroid gland and the breasts. The prostate
gland, gastrointestinal tract, salivary glands, bones, connective tissues, and the fluids of almost the entire
body utilize iodine. These different tissues of the body all have developed iodine-trapping mechanisms to
effectively extract iodine from dietary sources. The breasts have an efficient method of acquiring iodine
from the diet.— The thyroid gland’s need for iodine will ensure that it has the “first pick” of iodine which,
in a deficient state, may mean that other tissues of the body can show signs of severe deficiencies.
The iodization of salt was introduced solely to decrease the rate of goiter and mental retardation. It
has decreased the prevalence of goiter, but it has not been enough to affect the rate of breast disease. In
fact, areas of the world with the lowest iodine intakes have been found to have very high rates of breast
cancer.
In the United States, the area known as the “goiter belt”, which borders the Great Lakes, not only has
one of the highest mortality rates from breast cancer, it also has extremely low iodine levels in the soil.
This would point to a direct relationship between iodine levels and development of and mortality from
breast cancer.
When iodine is ingested or injected, there are two major areas of the body that take up iodine: the
thyroid gland and the extra-thyroidal tissue. Researchers have estimated that approximately 8mg of iodine
is taken up by the extra-thyroidal tissue (while 6mg is taken up by the thyroid).— — The breasts are one of
the largest consumers of extra-thyroidal iodine. Estimates are that the breasts need approximately 5mg of
iodine per day in a 50kg (1101b) woman.— — — A larger woman (or a woman with larger breasts) would
have a greater amount of iodine concentrated in the breasts. Since men have smaller breasts than women,
their iodine needs are lower.
In a state of iodine deficiency, the body’s major storage of iodine occurs in the thyroid gland. When
the body becomes iodine sufficient, the thyroid gland will contain 50mg of iodine out of total body iodine
of l,500mg-2,000mg.— — At iodine sufficiency, the largest amounts of iodine are found in fat tissue and
muscle (striated) tissue. If obesity is present, the body’s need for iodine increases as the fat cells of the
body would require more iodine.
As previously mentioned, women’s breasts are major sites for iodine storage. Maintaining adequate
iodine levels are necessary to ensure an adequately functioning thyroid gland and normal breast
architecture. I believe it will also lower the incidence of breast cancer and help women overcome breast
cancer.
It is well known that thyroid illnesses, including goiter and autoimmune thyroid disorders, strike
women at much larger percentages than they strike men. One reason may be that a woman, having more
breast tissue than a man, requires a higher iodine intake than a man. In an iodine-deficient state, a woman
will show earlier signs and more severe signs of iodine deficiency than a man in a similar deficient state.
OTHER TISSUE REQUIREMENTS FOR IODINE
All of the glands of the body depend on adequate iodine levels to function optimally. Animal studies
have shown problems with the adrenal glands—, the thymus gland—, the ovaries—, the hypothalamus and
pituitary axis—, as well as the entire endocrine system, when there is an iodine-deficient state. In fact, the
ovaries have the second highest concentration of iodine in the body next to the thyroid gland. An iodine-
deficient state will lead to an imbalanced hormonal system. It is impossible to have a balanced hormonal
system without ensuring an adequate iodine intake.
Dr. Guy Abraham, one of the world’s leading researchers on iodine, has shown that the required
daily intake of iodine necessary for maintaining iodine sufficiency for the whole body is at least 13mg per
day.—
At sufficiency, the thyroid gland holds a total of approximately 50mg of iodine. The thyroid gland
needs approximately 6mg/day of iodine for sufficiency. The breasts need at least 5mg of iodine; that
leaves 2mg (13mg-llmg) of iodine for the rest of the body. This 2mg is still well above-14x-the RDA of
150pg/day of iodine. Either way, this would explain why the RDA for iodine is inadequate. To achieve
and maintain your optimal health, it is necessary to get your iodine levels evaluated and to supplement
with the correct amount and form of iodine.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The connection between iodine deficiency and breast cancer as well as fibrocystic breast disease is
strong and recent research is making this connection stronger. Breast cancer (like prostate cancer) is
occurring at epidemic rates—currendy one in seven women are afflicted. Prostate cancer affects one in
three men. Although there are numerous reasons for the development of cancer, the research is clear;
iodine deficiency is a major piece of the puzzle. Iodine deficiency has also been associated with other
cancers including ovarian, uterine, and thyroid cancer. Perhaps the reason we have made so little progress
in our treatment of nearly all of the hormone-sensitive cancers is that the underlying cause has been
overlooked. This underlying cause could very well be iodine deficiency. It is imperative to have your
iodine level checked and supplemented with the correct form of iodine when there is iodine deficiency
identified. I feel iodine status should be investigated in all cancer patients. The best results with iodine
therapy occur when iodine supplementation is given as part of an anti-cancer program.
- Bretthauer, E. Milk transfer comparisons of different chemical forms of radioiodine. Health Physics.
1972.22:257
- Vitale, M. Iodide excess induces apoptosis in thyroid cells through a p53-independent mechanism
involving oxidative stress. Endocrin. 141. 2000.
- Smyth, P. Role of iodine in antioxidant defense in thyroid and breast disease. Biofactors. 19. 2003
- Tseng, Y.L. Iodothyronines: Oxidative deiodination by hemoglobin and inhibition of lipid peroxidation.
Lipds. 19. 1984
- Winkler, R. Effects of iodide on total antioxidant status of human serum. Cell Biochem. Funct. 18. 2000.
- Cancer statistics, 2004. Cancerj. Clin. 2004; 54:8-29
Lemon, H. Reduced estriol excretion in patients with breast cancer prior to endocrine therapy. JAMA.
196; 1128-1136. 1966.
- Wright, Jonathan. Presented at ACAM. November, 2005. Anaheim, CA.
- Personal communication with Dr. Wright and presented at ACAM, Fall, 2006.
12 Int. J. of Med. Sci. 2008 5($): 189-96
- Eskin, B. Mammary gland dysplasia. JAMA. 200. 1967
- Aquino, T. Arch. Pathology. 94, 270
- Krouse, T. Proc. Amer. Ass. Ca. Res. 18, 1977
— Eskin, B. Iodine and Mammary Cancer. Adv. In Exp. Medicine and Biology. \bl. 91. 1977
15 Eskin, B. IBID. 1977
12 Biol. Tr. Elem. Res. 1995, 49; 9-19
12 MolCell Endo. 2005, 236:49-57
— Slebodzinski, A.B. Ovarian iodide uptake and triiodothyronine generation in follicular fluid. The
enigma of the thyroid ovary interaction. Domest. Anim. Endocrinol. 29(1):97-103, July 2005
— Siiteri, P. Increased availability of serum estrogens in breast cancer, a new hypothesis. In Hormones
and Breast Cancer. Banbury Report No. 8. Cold Spring Harbour Laboratories, 1981
— Eskin, B., et al. Iodine metabolism and breast cancer. Trans. New York, Acad, of Sciences. 32:911-
947, 1970
— Wang, J., Effects of tamoxifen on benign breast disease in women at high risk for breast cancer. J. Natl.
Cancer Inst., 95 (4):202-207, 2003
— Bartow, S.A., et. al. Fibrocystic disease: A continuing enigma. Pathol. Annu. 1982: 17:93-111
— Ghent, W., et al. Iodine Replacement in Fibrocystic Disease of the Breast. Can.J. Surg. 36: 453-460,
1993
— Stadel, W Dietary iodine and risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer. Lancet. 1976; 1:890-891.
— Talamini, R. Selected medical conditions and risk of breast cancer. British J. of Cancer. 1997;
75(11):1699-1703
— Venturi, S. Role of iodine in evolution and carcinogenesis of thyroid, breast and stomach. Adv. Clin.
Path. 2000;4:11-17
— Flechas, J. Orthoiodosupplementation in a primary care practice. The Original Internist. 12(2):89-96,
2005.
— Smyth, P.P.A. Thyroid disease and breast cancer. J. Endocr. Invest. 16:396. 1993
— Perry, M. Thyroid function in patients with breast cancer. Ann. Roy. Coll. Surg. Engl. 60, 1978
— Chandrakant, C. Breast cancer relationship to thyroid supplements for hypothyroidism. JAMA. \bl.
236, No. 10. 9.6.1976.
21 JAMA. Vol. 236. N. 10. 1976
22 IBID. JAMA. 1976
22 Beatson, G. Adjuvant use of thyroid extract in breast cancer. Lancet 104: no. 2, pg. 162, 1896
— Finley, J.W., et all. Breast cancer and thyroid disease. Quart. Rev. Surg. Obstet. and Gyn. 1960 17: 139
— Eskin, B.A. Iodine and mammary cancer. Tans. N.Y. Acad, of Sciences. 1970
— Lancet. 1976, 2: 807-8
— Biol. Tr. Elem. Res. 1995, 49: 9-19
22 J. Surg. One. 1996, 61:209-213
22 Can. J. Surg. 1993, 36: 453-460
— Funaltashi, H. Suppressive effect of iodine on DM AA-induced breast cancer in rat. J. Surg. Oncol.
1996; 61
— Brown-Grant, K. The sites of iodide concentration in the oviduct and the uterus of the rat. J. Endocrin.
1972; 53.
— Abraham, G.E., et al. Orthoiodosupplementation: Iodine sufficiency of the whole human body. The
Original Internist, 9:30-41, 2002
— Stadel, B. Dietary iodine and risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer. Lancet. 4.24. 1976
— Bogardus, aG. Surgery. 1960, 49, 461.
— Finley, J. rev. Obstet. Gynec. 1960, 49, 17.
— Eskin, B.A. Iodine and mammary cancer. Tans. N.Y. Acad, of Sciences. 1970
— Drouse, T. Age-related changes in iodine-blocked. Proc. Amer. Ass. Ca. res. 18. 1977
— Eskin, B.A. Iodine and mammary cancer. Tans. N.Y. Acad, of Sciences. 1970
— Eskin, B.A. Mammary gland dysplasia in iodine deficiency. JAMA. 5.22.1967
30 Eskin, B.A. IBID. 1967
— Eskin, B.A., et al. Human Breast Uptake of Radioactive Iodine. OB-GYN, 44:398-402, 1974
— Berson, S.A., et al. Quantitative aspects of iodine metabolism. The exchangeable organic iodine pool
and the rates of thyroidal secretion, peripheral degradation and fecal excretion of endogenously
synthesized organically bound iodine. J. Clin. Invest, 33:1533-1552. 1954
Abraham, G., et al. IBID. 2002
— Eskin, B., et al. Mammary Gland Dysplasia in Iodine Deficiency, JAMA, 200: 115-119, 1967.
— Eskin, B., etal. Iodine metabolism and Breast cancer. Tans. New York. Acad. Of sciences, 32: 911-947,
1970
^ Abraham, G. IBID. 20025
— Koutras, D.A., et al. Effect of small iodine supplement on thyroid function in normal individuals. J.
Clin. Endocr. 24:857-862, 1964
— Abraham, G., et al. Orthoiodosupplementation: Iodine sufficiency of the whole human body. Original
Internist. December, 2002.
— Nolan, L.A., et al. Chronic Iodine deprivation attenuates stress-induced and diurnal variation in
corticosterone secretion in female Wistar rats. J. Neuroend. 2000. Dec; 12(12); 1149-59
— Rodzaevskaia, E.B., et al. Age-dependent thymus involution in experimental iodine deficiency. Arkh.
Patol. 2002 Mar-Apr; 64(2): 13-6
— Rodzaevskaia, E.B. Morphological impairment of oogenesis in experimental iodinedependent thyroid
transformation. Arkh. Patol. 2002. Mar-Apr; 64(2): 10-3
22 Nolan, et al. IBID. 2000
23 Abraham, G. IBID. 2002
Chapter 9
The Importance of Iodine Before Pregnancy
CHAPTER 9: THE IMPORTANCE OF IODINE BEFORE PREGNANCY
For nearly 100 years, it has been known that iodine deficiency is associated with a lowered
intelligence quotient (IQ). In fact, the research has been clear: iodine deficiency can result in mildly to
severely lowered IQ levels. Cretinism, the most severe form of iodine deficiency, was first described in
the late 18 th century. Cretinism is associated with severe mental deterioration and significantly lowered
IQ levels, swelling of the skin, hair loss, and short stature. Neurological impairment with reduced muscle
tone and slowed reflexes are also present in cretinism. Unfortunately, cretinism is still present in remote
areas of the world.
With the advent of iodized salt, cretinism has largely been eliminated in the Western world. Although
we don’t see cretinism, iodine deficiency is still occurring throughout the U.S. It is my premise that iodine
deficiency is occurring at epidemic rates in the U.S. and other Western countries.
As previously mentioned I, along with my partners, have tested over 6,000 patients and found iodine
deficiency present in over 96% of those tested. You read those numbers correcdy-over 96% tested low,
with most testing moderately to severely low. This testing was done via urine, blood, and saliva
screening. Over the years, urine testing has been the predominant modality used. The urine testing was
done with spot tests as well 24-hour iodine loading tests. The results that I have seen leave no doubt:
Iodine deficiency is still occurring at epidemic rates.
In fact, recent reports from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005-2008)
found that nearly 60% of women of childbearing age are deficient in iodine.- Iodine levels have declined
over 50% over the last 40 years. 2 Although many health care experts claim that iodine deficiency is a
problem of the past, I can assure you of one thing; these health experts are wrong. Unfortunately, iodine
deficiency is not an old story—it is still present in America and many other Western countries today.
What are the Consequences of Iodine Deficiency in Pregnancy?
1. Lowered Childhood IQ
As I previously mentioned, one of the main consequences of iodine deficiency in pregnant women is
a lowered IQ in their children. I have been lecturing to doctors for over a decade about how important it
is to ensure that women of child-bearing age are iodine sufficient before they become pregnant.
Both the brain and neurological system are formed during the first trimester. The fetus is dependent
on the mother supplying enough iodine to stimulate normal neurological formation. Inadequate maternal
iodine can leave the child with permanent neurological damage and a lowered IQ. It is unclear if iodine
supplementation after birth will reverse the neurological problems obtained from the lack of iodine during
pregnancy.
In the latest NHANES (2009-2010) data, the median urine iodine levels for U.S. pregnant women
are low at 134pg/L.- According to the World Health Organization, this median level would supply
insufficient iodine to the fetus.- Keep in mind, mild maternal iodine deficiency can cause thyroid
dysfunction and neurological deterioration. A meta-analysis of 18 studies of children and adolescents
found iodine deficiency was associated with a 13.5 point lower IQ score in children and adolescents.-
The importance of early iodine supplementation in pregnancy was illustrated when researchers
studied three groups of pregnant women.- All three groups were supplemented with potassium iodide (KI)
at 200pg/day. Keep in mind, the RDA for iodine in pregnancy is 220pg/day. In this study the women were
divided into three groups:
• Group 1: Supplemented with KI 200pg/day at 4-6 weeks of gestation
• Group 2: Supplemented with KI 200pg/day at 12-14 weeks of gestation
• Group 3: Supplemented with KI 200pg/day after delivery
All of the children born to these mothers were given a neurocognitive evaluation at 18 months of age
and reported these results as the developmental quotient (DQ). The DQ, similar to the IQ measurement, is
used to compare a child’s functioning as compared to a normative group. For both the IQ and the DQ, the
average score is 100. The researchers found a significant difference in the DQ between the three groups.
As seen in Figure 17 (next page), the children in group 1, who were supplemented with iodine in the first
trimester had the highest average DQ score of 102. Group 2, supplemented with iodine at the beginning of
the second trimester had a DQ of 92 while Group 3 had a DQ of 87.
Figure 17: Iodine Supplementation and IQ
105
Group 1 Group 2 Group 3
The authors of this study reported that there was delayed neurobehavioral performance observed in
36% of the children in group 3, 25% of the children in group 2 and none of the children in group 1. They
summarized this study by stating, “A delay in 6-10 weeks of iodine supplementation.. .at the beginning of
pregnancy increases the risk of neurodevelopmental delay in the progeny.”
2. Decrease in Educational Ability
Scientists hypothesized that, as compared to children born to mothers with adequate iodine levels,
children born to mothers with mild iodine deficiency would have poorer educational outcomes. Nine
years later, the children of the mothers who had mild iodine deficiency-urinary iodine <150pg/L-were
compared to the children from mothers without iodine deficiency. As compared to the children born to
mothers with adequate iodine levels, nine years later in grade 3, the children of the iodine-deficient
mothers had a 10% reduction in writing, 8% reduction in grammar and a 6% reduction in English
literacy.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE ADEQUATE IODINE LEVELS BEFORE
PREGNANCY
It is important to ensure adequate iodine levels in young women before they become pregnant. In
order for the fetus to develop normally adequate amounts of iodine are required by the mother. In-utero
iodine deficiency has been associated with a host of ailments in children including attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, cretinism, dwarfism, and mental retardation. Iodine
deficiency has also been associated with poor height and bone maturation of children.- - Furthermore,
there is a decreased neonatal survival rate in iodine-deficient areas. In fact, neonatal mortality has been
shown to decline over 50% when iodine deficiency is rectified.— Unfortunately, in the twenty-first
century, iodine levels are continuing to fall for the vast majority of Americans. Chapter 13 will provide
more information about iodine dosing during pregnancy.
IODINE, GROWTH HORMONE, AND THYROID HORMONE
Growth hormone deficiency is a condition in children and adults whereby the pituitary gland fails to
produce adequate amounts of human growth hormone. Growth hormone deficiency in children is not
uncommon. Estimates are that from 1 in 4,000 to 1 in 10,000 children suffer from human growth hormone
deficiency. - The incidence of human growth hormone deficiency in children appears to be increasing.
Why would the incidence of human growth hormone deficiency be so prevalent? Low iodine levels
may provide the explanation for this. Researchers have hypothesized that, “.. .improved growth in iodine-
deficient children receiving iodine is likely due to improved thyroid function {as} both thyroid hormone
and {human} growth hormone are essential for normal growth and development.”— These same
researchers reported on a study of severely iodine-deficient children who were given iodine. The authors
reported that there was a significant increase in thyroid function, human growth hormone, and somatic
growth in the treated group versus the untreated group.
Researchers studied three groups of children to determine whether iodine repletion improves growth
hormone levels and somatic growth in iodine-deficient children. The studies were double blinded,
prospective studies from three areas of the world-Morocco, Albania, and South Africa. In all three
studies, iodine supplementation increased urinary iodine levels and resulted in elevated growth hormone
levels (increased IGF-1 levels.) In two of the three sites, iodine repletion resulted in increased thyroid
hormone levels as well as weight-for-age scores and height-for-age scores.—
Both thyroid hormone and human growth hormone are essential for normal growth and
development.— — In children (or an individual not fully grown), human growth hormone stimulates growth
in length. In adults, human growth hormone does not stimulate growth in length but has a whole host of
beneficial effects in the body including stimulating muscle growth, fat metabolism, and energy production.
For more information on human growth hormone in adults, I refer the reader to my book, The Miracle of
Natural Hormones. 3 — Edition.
IODINE LEVELS FALLING IN WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE
Researchers have reported on the falling iodine levels in women of childbearing age and pregnant
women for over 40 years. Recall ( Chapter 2 ) that the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
(NHANES) has found that over the last 40 years (from 1970-2010), iodine levels have fallen in the
United States over 50 percent. In fact, the most recent NHANES data found that nearly 60% of U.S.
women of childbearing age were iodine deficient.— I believe this decline in iodine intake has
significantly contributed to (or perhaps caused) the epidemic of behavioral (ADHD) and emotional
(depression) problems affecting our children. Furthermore, it is fueling the epidemic of thyroid problems
seen in our young people.
□ % Population
with Moderate
to Severe Iodine
Deficiency
Figure 18: Iodine Levels Over Time
The World Health Organization has declared that a urinary iodine concentration (spot urine check) of
less than 50pg / L is a sign of moderate to severe iodine deficiency. Urinary iodine concentrations less than
20pg / L are considered severe iodine deficiency.— The proportion of the United States population with
moderate to severe iodine deficiency (less than 50pg/L in urine) has increased by over 450 percent from
1970-2000; from 2.6% in NHANES I (1970) to 11.7% in NHANES II (2000). 12 Unfortunately, things
have only gotten worse. Researchers reported in 2005 that 16.8 percent of women of childbearing age had
moderate to severe iodine deficiency. In 2008, the latest data available, 14.6% of women of childbearing
age were found to be moderately to severely iodine deficient.— Figure 18 (previous page) shows the
increasing prevalence of moderate to severe iodine deficiency over the last 38 years.
A study of 100 healthy, pregnant Bostonians found that 50% were ingesting below the recommended
daily allowance of iodine (220pg/day) and 9% were felt to have moderate to severe iodine deficiency
(less than 50pg/day on a urine analysis).—
FINAL THOUGHTS
Iodine is a crucial item needed by a fetus for normal neurological development. Unfortunately,
iodine deficiency is not rare in the U.S. Keep in mind that iodine levels have fallen over 50% during the
last forty years. And, iodine deficiency is occurring at epidemic rates in women of childbearing age.
Unless we correct this public health problem, I do not see U.S. childhood health improving. The next
chapter will expand on this concept.
I can’t emphasize this point enough: It is important for every woman to have her iodine levels tested
before pregnancy and to supplement with iodine when needed.
How much iodine is that? In an optimal situation, the dose should be individualized for the particular
patient. However, many patients cannot find iodine-knowledgeable health care practitioners. Researchers
believe the average Japanese intake of iodine is approximately 12-13mg/day. I have not found problems
with this dose for the vast majority of patients that I have treated.
One final thought; keep in mind that it is important to ensure adequate iodine intake for all ages—that
includes children after they are born. More information about childhood dosing of iodine can be found in
Chapter 10 .
1 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
2 CDC.gov . NHANES data.
2 Thyroid. Vol. 23. N. 8. 2013 p. 927-937
— Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. 2012. 26 (Suppl. 1), 108-117
— In Stanbury, JB (ed). The Damaged Brain of Iodine Deficiency. N.Y. 1994pp. 195-2000
g Thyroid. Vol. 19. N. 5. 2009. 511-519
Clin. Endocrin. And Metab. 98:1954-62. 2013
2 Int. J Vit. Nutr. Res. 65:199-205 1995
2 Ind. J. of Public Health. 40:10-12 1996
— Lancet. 1997. Sep. 13; 350(9080):771-3
— From http://www.lilly.ca/searchable/cons/children.htm Accessed 11.15.08
— J. Clin. Endocrin. Metab. E Pub ahead of print. 11.21.08 as doi:10.1210/jc.2006-1901
— J. of Clin. Endocrin. and Metab. Feb. 1, 2007, \bl. 92, N. 2. p. 437-442
M Proc. Natl. Acad. Scie. USA 75:45-49 1978
12 Pediat. Res. 52: 137-47 2002
16 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
12 WHO/NHD/01.1
— CDC.gov
12 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
— Thyroid. 2004; 14:327-8
Chapter 10
Children. ADHD. Autism, and Iodine
CHAPTER 10: CHILDREN , ADHD , AUTISM , AiVD IODINE
Dawson, at 7years old, was driving his parents and his teachers crazy. “He is constantly up and
down. He can’t pay attention. He can’t focus. His teachers are always complaining to me,” his mother
(Stephanie) commented. When I saw Dawson, he was found to have a low basal body temperature (95.7
degrees Fahrenheit—normal 97.8-98.2 degrees Fahrenheit). Low basal body temperatures can be
associated with thyroid problems. Stephanie also let me know that Dawson had been suffering from
severe constipation for many years. Constipation is a sign of hypothyroidism. Dawson also had very
slow reflexes on exam. Dawson’s blood tests did not indicate a thyroid problem but a urinary test did
indicate that Dawson was low in iodine. Due to his complaints and low temperatures, I placed Dawson
on a small dose of desiccated thyroid hormone (Armour® thyroid % grain) and iodine (6.25mg of
Iodoral®). I also gave Stephanie advice on how to clean up his diet. Within days, Stephanie noticed the
positive changes in Dawson. In fact, she sent me an email that read:
“I thought you would like to see Dawson’s latest report card comments (attached). He
used to be reserved and did not want to interact socially. He has been on Armour® thyroid
for six weeks now and the teacher has noticed that he has changed in personality and
attentiveness. Maybe all the kids being diagnosed with ADD/ADHD are really
hypothyroid. I am so thankful that he had help available to him. My mom commented on
Easter that my kids were like two different children. I agree. Dawson could not sit in his
chair at meal time. He was up and down and up and down. It drove us crazy. Now he sits
through the entire meal and eats. I have not heard that his stomach hurts (which used to
be every night) since the first week he was on the thyroid meds. ”
Dawson’s case is not unique. Every child with a diagnosis or symptoms of ADHD needs to have a
complete nutritional and hormonal evaluation. The use of psychoactive drug therapies to treat this
condition should only be used as a last resort. Many of these young patients suffering from ADHD will
respond positively to a holistic approach which includes cleaning up the diet. More information on how
to implement a healthy diet can be found in The Guide to Healthy Eating.
At every lecture I give, I am invariably asked the question, “Do children need to take iodine?” The
quick answer is “yes”. This chapter will give you the explanation behind this answer.
The World Health Organization estimates that there are over 285 million school-age children
worldwide who are iodine deficient-. Just as adults need iodine, children also need it. Since children’s
brains are growing and developing on a daily basis, it may be more important for children to take
adequate amounts of iodine in their diets than adults. This chapter will show you the importance of
supplementing with iodine before pregnancy and the necessity of continuing iodine supplementation in
children of all ages.
The World Health Organization has recommended that the daily iodine intake for children
should be:-
90pg for preschool children (0-59 months)
120pg for schoolchildren (6-12 years)
150gg for adults (above 12 years)
200pg for pregnant and lactating women
It is my opinion that these recommendations are not sufficient for ensuring adequate iodine levels in
our children (or adults). The consequence of iodine deficiency in childhood can be devastating. I will
show you how the growing incidence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be direcdy
related to iodine deficiency. Children are suffering from epidemic rates of emotional and mental disorders
such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. Estimates are that from seven to
sixteen percent of school-aged children suffer from ADHD.- ADHD is not a deficiency of a mood-altering
drug; it is a consequence of nutritional and hormonal imbalances. Iodine is one such nutritional item that
needs to be optimized in all children, especially those with ADHD.
IODINE AND ADHD
ADHD is being diagnosed at an epidemic rate. Why would ADHD be occurring at such a high rate?
There is no question that if Big Pharma has a drug available to treat an illness, it will promote, through
direct-to-consumer advertising, a campaign to increase the awareness and utilization of the drug in order
to maximize profits. I believe ADHD is overdiagnosed and overtreated. Having said that, I do believe
that over the last 40 years ADHD behavior is increasing in frequency.
Many experienced educators report an increased frequency in student ADHD behavior during their
tenure. At the present time, something is clearly going on in many children that is not allowing them to
focus properly and causing them to act out with inappropriate behavior.
I do not believe that ADHD is a condition caused by a lack of a mood-altering drug such as Ritalin®
or Concerta®. I believe ADHD is a condition caused in large part from nutritional and hormonal
imbalances as well as an increased toxic load.
I have found good results in treating ADHD children-as well as other children with behavioral and
emotional problems-with nutritional therapies and detoxification.
Studies have shown that correcting iodine deficiency in an iodine-deficient population decreases the
frequency of ADHD. My experience has shown iodine deficiency to be present in over 96% of the nearly
6,000 patients that have been tested in my office. This includes the testing of many children. Though I do
see more adults than children, I have found iodine deficiency occurs in children in the exact same
frequency that it occurs in adults-over 96%.
Italian researchers compared 16 women from an iodine deficient area of Italy to 7 women from a
higher iodine area. All the women were pregnant. The women from the iodine-deficient area had a
reduced thyroid hormone (total T4 and free T4) with elevated TSH as compared to the higher iodine area.
The researchers concluded, “It is hypothesized that the imbalance of maternal thyroid hormone
homeostasis during pregnancy as a consequence of endemic iodine deficiency may be responsible for the
impaired psychoneurological development observed in children from that area. Appropriate iodine and/or
thyroxine prophylaxis to women in that region may prevent the neurobehavioral, cognitive, and motor
compromise of that population.”^
Further research found higher levels of ADHD in the children of women who lived in an iodine-
deficient area as compared to women who lived in an iodine-sufficient area. After 10 years of follow-up,
researchers found that ADHD was diagnosed in 11/16 (69%) in the iodine-deficient area versus none
(0/11) in the iodine-sufficient area. Furthermore, there was an 11 point decline in IQ in those children
born in the iodine-deficient area as compared to the children born in the iodine-sufficient area. An 11
point decline in IQ can mean the difference between a successful child and a troubled child.
AUTISM AND IODINE DEFICIENCY
Autism has been increasing at an alarming rate. In 1980, it was estimated that autism was occurring
in 1 in 10,000 children. In 1995, the CDC estimated that 1 in 500 children suffered with autism In 2008,
it increased to 1 in 88. The 2008 numbers reflect a 78% increase in eight years and a staggering 11,400%
increase since 1980. The CDC’s autism analyses are shown in Table 7 .-
Table 7: Autism Rates 2000-2008
Surveillance
Year
Birth Year
How Many
Children
Have
Autism
1980
1972
1 in 10,000
1995
1987
1 in 500
2000
1992
1 in 150
2002
1994
1 in 150
2004
1996
1 in 125
2006
1998
1 in 110
2008
2000
1 in 88
These numbers are hard to believe. Why has autism increased at such a rapid rate? There are many
theories that try to explain why autism is rising which include toxic exposures to children from vaccines,
mercury, and/or pesticides. Furthermore, some think that the rise in autism is related to overdiagnosing it.
However, overdiagnosing autism cannot explain the epidemic increases seen. One overlooked cause of
the epidemic rise in autism could be iodine deficiency.
Researchers have reported a pattern of iodine decline in a population and a concomitant increase in
autism in the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, England, and Italy. § 2 2 9
WHY CHILDREN NEED IODINE
Children (and adults) need iodine for the normal formation and maintenance of their endocrine
glands (e.g., thyroid and ovaries) and for normal brain development. Inadequate iodine levels, as
previously mentioned, will set the stage for poor development and a lifelong history of learning problems.
I believe that the iodine requirements for children have increased over the last 30 years, just as they
have increased for adults. The main reason the requirements have increased is due to additional exposure
to goitrogens such as bromide, fluoride, and chlorine derivatives. Iodine supplementation can act as the
antidote for goitrogen exposure.
My clinical and laboratory experience has clearly shown that bromide toxicity is occurring at
epidemic proportions. I have continually found that bromide toxicity is occurring in most individuals. For
more information on bromide, I refer the reader to Chapter 11 .
HOW TO TEST CHILDREN FOR IODINE
Children, like adults, can be tested for iodine sufficiency. The iodine loading test will be discussed
in Chapter 13 . Children can also do an iodine loading test, but their dosage of iodine must be lowered. If
a child weighs less than 80 pounds (36kg) he can take 12.5mg of iodine/iodide (1 Iodoral tablet or 2
drops of Lugol’s solution) in the morning. Then, 24 hours of urine is collected and a sample is sent for
analysis. It is important to let the laboratory know that it is a child being tested and that the child did not
take the usual adult loading test iodine amount (50mg). Both laboratories (FFP and Hakala) listed in the
appendix of the book will perform an iodine loading test on children.
Children can also be spot urine tested. This can be done as a first morning urine sample. The spot
urine test is only accurate for those not taking an iodine supplement. Once the child has started to
supplement with iodine, the appropriate test becomes the 24-hour iodine loading test as described above.
DOSING A CHILD WITH IODINE
How much iodine do you supplement a child with? It is important to remember that every individual
is a unique biochemical person. No one dose fits all. My experience has shown that iodine (in the form of
iodine and iodide) dosed at 0.25mg/kg/day (or O.llmg/pounds/day) is an approximate amount of iodine to
ingest for most children. However, I do not suggest supplementing a child with iodine without working
with an iodine-knowledgeable health care provider who can properly test and follow your child’s
laboratory results.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Do children need iodine? Without a doubt, the answer is “yes”. Children need adequate amounts of
iodine to form the normal architecture of the glandular tissue as well as for the optimal function of the
thyroid gland and the entire endocrine system
Due to the continual and steady exposure to the toxic goitrogens so prevalent in our modern
environment, iodine supplementation is more important than ever, especially in children. I believe that
iodine deficiency is one of the main causes (or the main cause) of ADHD and autism. ADHD and autism
are occurring at epidemic rates right now. These illnesses are not due to a deficiency of a dangerous
psychotropic medication. I feel they are both signaling that there is an imbalance in the body, particularly
a sign of a nutritional and hormonal imbalance. The rapidly falling U.S. iodine levels could explain why
we are suffering from an epidemic of both ADHD and autism as well as other childhood behavioral and
physical problems.
Rectifying iodine deficiency should be considered a national emergency addressed by the highest
levels of the U.S. government. We are experiencing a collapse of the health of our future-our children.
However, all is not bleak. Just as illustrated in Dawson’s case (at the beginning of the chapter), finding
the underlying cause of the illness and instituting appropriate therapies can reverse this decline. In both
children and adults, iodine deficiency needs to be recognized and treated.
1 Lancet. 362:1859-60. 2003
- www.emro.who.int/nutrition/PDF/IDD.PDF accessed 11.15.08
- Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Med. 2002; 156:217-224
4 Clin. Endocr. 1005 Apr; 42(4)/ 409
- http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html . Accessed 7.1.13
g Brit. Med. J. 2004:328:227
- Arch. Des. Child. Fetal Neonatal Ed. 2004. Sep; 89(5):F436-9
2 Med. J. Aust. 2003; 178(4):159-162
- Asia Pac. J. Clin. Nutr. 2003; 12. Suppl. S15
Chapter 11
Toxic Halides: Bromide and Fluoride
CHAPTER 11: TOXIC HALIDES: BROMIDE AND FLUORIDE
Iodine is part of a class of elements known as the halogens. The halogens are a family of elements
that form similar salt-like compounds in combination with sodium and most metals. The halogens are
bromine, chlorine, fluorine, iodine, and astatine. The halogens, for chemistry enthusiasts, are found in
group Vila of the periodic table.
BROMINE
Bromine was discovered in 1826. Bromide, (the reduced form of bromine), is rapidly absorbed in
the intestinal tract. Bromine lies just above iodine in the periodic table. Because the size and weight of
bromine is very close to iodine, these two items can compete with one another for binding in the body,
especially in the thyroid gland. Bromine, being of similar size and shape to iodine, has the ability to bind
to iodine receptors in the body.
However, bromine should be considered a toxic element to the body and needs to be avoided. When
bromine binds to iodine receptors in the thyroid gland, it disrupts normal thyroid functioning. Iodine is
utilized by the thyroid to make thyroid hormone. When bromine replaces iodine, the thyroid hormone
produced by the thyroid gland can be brominated rather than iodinated. My experience has clearly shown
that bromine toxicity leads to a plethora of thyroid problems, including autoimmune thyroid illnesses such
as Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s disease as well as hypothyroidism Since iodine and bromine
compete with one another for absorption and receptor binding, the body can only eliminate bromine if
there is sufficient iodine available.
Bromine intoxication (i.e., bromism) has been shown to cause delirium, psychomotor retardation,
schizophrenia, and hallucination.- Subjects who ingest enough bromide feel dull and apathetic and have
difficulty concentrating.- Bromide can also cause severe depression, headaches, and irritability. It is
unclear how much bromide must be absorbed before symptoms of bromism become apparent. The
symptoms of bromide toxicity can be present even with low levels of bromide in the diet. 3 Keep in mind,
that when the body has insufficient iodine, the toxicity of bromine is accelerated.
Bromine (or its reduced form—bromide) is used as an antibacterial agent for pools and hot tubs. It
is still used as a fumigant for agriculture. Crops sprayed with bromide have been found to have elevated
bromide levels.- Bromide is also used as a fumigant for termites and other pests. In 1981, 6.3 million
pounds of bromide were used in California. By 1991, 18.7 million pounds were used in California.-
Toxicity of bromine has been reported from the ingestion of some carbonated drinks (e.g., Mountain Dew,
AMP Energy Drink, some Gatorade products), which contain brominated vegetable oils.-
Bromine used to be present in many common over-the-counter medications. It is still used today in
many prescription medicines. Over 150 years ago, bromine was used extensively in medicine as a
sedative as well as a remedy for seizures. Due to the toxicity of bromine, it has been phased out of many
medicines. However, bromine still can be found in some medicines including those that treat asthma, and
bowel and bladder dysfunction (see Table 8 on next page).
I believe all medicines, as well as foods, that contain bromide need to be avoided. It is lunacy to use
bromine in any form (either bromine or bromide) as a medicine. Animal studies have shown that bromide
intake can adversely affect the accumulation of iodide in the thyroid and the skin.- Research has also
shown that a high bromide intake results in iodide being eliminated from the thyroid gland and being
replaced by bromide.- In addition, animal studies have shown that the ingestion of bromide can cause
hypothyroidism.-When there is iodine deficiency present, the toxicity of bromide is accelerated.
Therefore, maintaining adequate iodine levels is essential when you live in an environment that provides
exposure to bromide.
Table 8: Currently Used Bromide-Containing Medications
Medicine
Atrovent Inhaler
Atrovent Nasal Spray
Ipratropium Nasal Spray
Pro-Banthine
Pyridostigmine bromide
SpirivaS HandihalerS
Indication
Breathing Difficulties
Breathing Difficulties
Breathing Difficulties
Bladder Dysfunction
Antidote for Nerve Gas
Breathing Difficulties
HOW COMMON IS BROMIDE TOXICITY?
Unfortunately, bromide toxicity is very common. In fact, every patient (over 1,000) that I have tested
for bromide levels has tested in a high range. My clinical experience has continually shown that that there
is a direct correlation between how ill a patient is and how high their bromide levels are. A small study
comparing the bromide levels of breast cancer patients with a control group without breast cancer
showed bromide levels were nearly 2x higher in the breast cancer group (see page 232 1.
I checked 32 new patients for their urinary bromide excretion as seen below. These patients were all
new to my practice. I asked them to collect their urine for 24 hours before taking iodine and then repeating
the collection the next day after taking a 50mg iodine/iodide load. The figure below shows the average
results. Bromide was found to be elevated in every patient tested.
Figure 19: Average Bromide Levels Pre/Post Iodine
Bromide mg/24 hours
□ Bromide Pre Iodine mg/24
hours
■ Bromide Post 50mg Iodide
mg/24 Hours
There is no known therapeutic value for bromide. Therefore, any level of bromide could possibly
cause problems. You can see, from Figure 19 . even before the patients took iodine, they were excreting
too much bromide. After taking 50mg of iodine/iodide their bromide excretion increased nearly 50% from
the baseline. Ingesting iodine caused the body to excrete larger amounts of bromide. This small study
illustrates the detoxifying effects of iodine. Why are bromide levels so high in so many people? The next
sections will answer this question in more detail.
BROMINE ADDED TO BAKERY PRODUCTS
Bromine is a toxic element and has no place for ingestion in man. Bromine is considered a
goitrogen, which is a chemical that causes a goiter of the thyroid gland. Bromine interferes with iodide
uptake and utilization in the thyroid gland.— — There is no reason to use bromine in a medication and
certainly no reason to use bromine in a common food source.
In the early 1960’s, iodine was used in the manufacturing process of bakery products, including
bread, as an anti-caking agent. One slice of bread contained up to 150pg of iodine, which was the RDA
for iodine. In 1965, The National Institute of Health reported that the average iodine intake horn bakery
products was 726pg of iodine per day.— Some researchers felt that this amount of iodine could cause
problems with the thyroid gland. Due to the erroneous concern of getting too much iodine from bakery
products, iodine was replaced with bromine in the 1980’s.—
This was a tremendous mistake. As can be seen from previous chapters, the amount of iodine in the
bakery products was not even close to approaching a toxic level. The replacement of iodine by bromine
not only increased the incidence of iodine deficiency, it also increased the levels of bromine in the
population. This single act of replacing an essential element-iodine-with a goitrogen-bromine-might be
responsible for the rapid decline in iodine levels we have experienced over the last 40 years.
The substitution of bromine for iodine in bakery products is certainly a large part of the declining
iodine levels in the United States. From 1971 until 2000, the National Health and Nutrition Survey
(NHANES) showed iodine levels have declined 50% in the United States.— The authors of this study
claim, “This reduction maybe due, in part, to changes in food production.”— No doubt, these authors must
be referring to the substitution of bromine for iodine.
The effects of iodine on the body have been reviewed in previous chapters. The thyroid gland, the
breasts, the salivary glands, etc., all have iodine receptor sites. The consequence of bromine binding to
the iodine receptors in these tissues is disastrous. In the case of the thyroid gland, thyroid hormone
production will be inhibited. The ingestion of bromine in an iodine-deficient state will further exacerbate
thyroid illness.
FLUORIDE
Fluoride, like bromide, is in the family of halogens. For over 50 years, the American Dental
Association has advocated the addition of fluoride to drinking water as a preventative measure against
dental caries.
However, there is much evidence to suggest that fluoride added to the water supply is ineffective at
preventing caries. A study in New Zealand found that there was no difference in tooth decay rates
between the fluoridated and the non-fluoridated areas.— This study has been repeated elsewhere. Many
European countries have recognized the fallacy of adding fluoride to the water supply and have stopped
the practice. The fluoridation of the water supply has been based on terrible science and is causing much
more harm than good.
Fluoridation has been linked to dental fluorosis (discoloration of the teeth), hip fractures, bone
cancer, lowered intelligence, kidney toxicity, and other negative effects. There have been no studies
which prove that long-term ingested fluoride has any positive effect.
Fluoride is known to be a toxic agent. Fluoride has been shown to inhibit the ability of the thyroid
gland to concentrate iodine. — Fluoride was first reported to cause thyroid problems in 1854 when
fluoride was found to be a cause of goiter in dogs.— Research has shown that fluoride is much more toxic
to the body when there is iodine deficiency present.
This concept was illustrated in a study of 288 mice where the mice were fed a diet with varying
amounts of iodine and fluoride. The researchers found that the incidence of goiter (swelling of the
thyroid) rose with the increasing intake of fluoride in a low iodine diet. Furthermore, the scientists found
that fluoride exposure correlated direcdy to lower iodine uptake by the thyroid gland in both iodine-
sufficient and iodine-deficient diets.— The toxicity of fluoride to the thyroid gland was also illustrated
when researchers studied the Himalayan people in Nepal. They examined 648 subjects in low iodine
areas and concluded that the areas with the highest fluoride levels in water (0.23ppm) had the highest
incidence of goiter-nearly 70%.— Keep in mind that in the U.S. iodine levels have fallen substantially
over the last 40 years. During this same time, most of the U.S. water supply has been fluoridated with
fluoride levels averaging about lppm—which is substantially higher than the fluoride ingested in the
Himalayan study.
Many commonly prescribed medications contain fluoride including the popular SSRI antidepressants
such as Paxil and Prozac. Interestingly, there have been reports of this class of antidepressants increasing
the risk of breast cancer. — Many medications that contain fluoride have been pulled from the market due
to serious adverse effects. These include the cholesterol-lowering drug Baycol, Propulsid (for stomach
ulcers), Posicor (anti-arrhythmic), Astemizole (allergies), Omniflox (antibiotic), Fen-Phen (weight loss)
and many others. Fluoride is still used in many medications, as seen in Table 9 on the next page. I believe
that no medication should contain any toxic halogen, fluoride included. Interestingly, many fluoridated
medications have been recalled due to an increased incidence of serious adverse effects.
Table 9: Currently Used Fluorinated Medications
Class of Medication
Common Names
Antacids
Prevacid
Anti-anxiety
Dalmane
Antidepressant
Prozac, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro
Anti-fungal antibiotics
Diflucan
Non-steroidal anti¬
inflammatory
Celebrex, Cliniril
Steroids
Decadron, Flonase, Flovent,
Advair Diskus
More information about the toxicity of fluoride can be found in the book, The Devil’s Poison by
Dean Murphy, DDS. This book is an excellent resource which chronicles the hazards of fluoride
exposure.
CHLORIDE
Chloride, like iodide, fluoride, and bromide is from the family of halogens. Chloride is an important
element in the extracellular fluid. There is a large amount of chloride found in the body—approximately
lOOgm. Chlorine (the oxidized form of chloride) is added to many products including the municipal water
supply as well as to swimming pools and hot tubs as a disinfectant. It is also used as a whitener.
However, chlorine is a toxic element.
A byproduct of chlorine use is the production of dioxin. Dioxin is one of the most toxic carcinogens
known to mankind. It does not readily break down in the environment. Chlorine and its byproducts have
been linked to birth defects, cancer—, reproductive disorders including stillbirth,— and immune system
breakdown.
Americans are exposed to a high level of chlorine and chlorine byproducts that are toxic to their
health. This includes being exposed to the steam of the dishwasher when the door is opened after cleaning
(chlorine superheated and combined with detergent). In addition, the widely used sugar-substitute
Sucralose (Splenda®) contains chlorinated table sugar.
No one denies the importance of having clean drinking and swimming pool water that is free of
bacteria. However, there are many safer alternatives to disinfecting water including the use of iodine,
hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet light, and ozone that could be substituted for chlorine.
PERCHLORATE
Perchlorate consists of one atom of chlorine surrounded by four atoms of oxygen. It is found
naturally in the environment and also can be man-made. Perchlorate can displace iodine binding in the
body. It can damage the iodine transport mechanism (NIS).— Perchlorate, at low levels, has been found to
cause thyroid cancer, goiter, hypothyroidism, and disruption of the normal menstrual cycle, as well as a
weakening of the immune system.—
Perchlorate is used in a variety of products including car air bags, leather tanning, and fireworks.
Today, one of the main manufacturing uses of perchlorate is for rocket fuel.
Sixty years ago, perchlorate was used as a medical treatment for hyperthyroidism as it can inhibit the
thyroid gland’s ability to concentrate iodine. Without iodine, the thyroid gland will become inactive. In
the 1960’s, due to safety concerns, perchlorate use in medicine was discontinued.
Perchlorate exposure has been associated with many serious health conditions ( Table 10 ). These
conditions all relate to lowered iodine levels when there is excess perchlorate in the body.
Table 10: Consequences of Perchlorate
Breast disease
Hypothyroidism
Immune System Problems
Mental retardation in newborns
Neurologic Problems
Poor fetal development
Poor neonatal development
Thyroid cancer
Today, perchlorate still continues to cause significant health problems. Ground water is
contaminated throughout much of the United States from manufactured perchlorate. Ninety percent of the
perchlorate manufactured each year is used for rocket fuel for NASA, defense contractors and the Air
Force.— Most perchlorate has been disposed direcdy into the ground or into abandoned mines.— —
The entire lower Colorado River is contaminated with perchlorate. The lower Colorado River
irrigates more than 1.8 million acres of land which encompasses over 15% of the nation’s crops and 13%
of the nation’s livestock. Approximately 20 million Americans drink water from the Colorado River
which is contaminated with perchlorate. In fact, at least 43 states have contaminated water from
perchlorate.— When perchlorate is released into the water supply, it can persist for long periods of time.
Researchers compared thyroid function in newborns that live in an area (Yuma, Arizona) with
perchlorate-contaminated drinking water supplied from the lower Colorado River versus newborns from
an area (Flagstaff, Arizona) with non-contaminated drinking water. Rocket and missile facilities were
thought to be the source of perchlorate that contaminated the water. Fifteen hundred infants were studied.
The results showed that infants in Yuma were found to have significandy depressed thyroid function as
compared to infants from Flagstaff.— Perchlorate levels were found to be elevated (above EPA limits) in
the water supply in Yuma and undetectable in the water supply in Flagstaff.— Perchlorate is known to
cross the placenta and can cause in-utero thyroid abnormalities.— Thyroid abnormalities in-utero or at
birth are the leading cause of preventable mental retardation.—
Drinking water is not the only problem with perchlorate. Lettuce grown in the fall and winter months
in the southwestern United States contains very high amounts of perchlorate. Up to 70% of the nation’s fall
and winter lettuce supply is irrigated with perchlorate-contaminated water from the lower Colorado
River.
Over 130 samples of commercial lettuce were tested for perchlorate. This included head lettuce as
well as adult and baby greens grown both organically and conventionally. Significant amounts of
perchlorate were found in 83% of the lettuce samples tested. There was virtually no difference between
organically or conventionally grown lettuce. It is estimated that by eating lettuce during the winter months,
1.6 million American women of childbearing age are exposed to more perchlorate than the EPA’s
recommended safe dose.—
Perchlorate has also been found in dairy and human milk. Forty-seven dairy milk samples from 11
states were examined for perchlorate. Significant amounts of perchlorate were found in 98% of the
samples (46/47). Thirty-six human milk samples from 18 states were examined for perchlorate. All of the
human milk samples- 100% -were found to contain measurable amounts of perchlorate. The mean
perchlorate level of human milk was 500% higher than dairy milk. In fact, there was an inverse
correlation of perchlorate and iodide in breast milk; the higher the perchlorate level, the lower the iodide
level. Breast milk is the only source of iodide in a breast-fed infant. The high perchlorate levels found in
this study prompted the authors to conclude, “Recommended iodine intake by pregnant and lactating
women may need to be revised upward.”—
Perchlorate has also been shown to cause neurological problems in rats. The offspring of female
pregnant rats exposed to perchlorate were found to have an irreversible decline in brain function.—
Remember, iodine levels have fallen over 50% in the United States over the last 40 years.
Perchlorate is a more toxic substance when iodine deficiency is present. In fact, all the toxic halides are
more toxic when iodine deficiency is present.
ARE THE TOXIC HALOGENS FLUORIDE AND BROMINE RESPONSIBLE
FOR THE EPIDEMIC RISE IN BREAST CANCER?
The research is clear that bromine and fluoride are toxic items for the body. In an iodine-deficient
state, the toxicity of bromide and fluoride are exacerbated.
I undertook a study in my office to look at the difference in iodide, bromine, and fluoride levels in
eight women with breast cancer versus ten women without breast cancer. Urinary levels of bromine and
fluoride were measured at baseline, one day after taking 50mg of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®) and 30 days
after taking 50mg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). The results (seen above, Figure 20 1 shocked me.
Figure 20: Average Bromide Excretion in 8 Breast Cancer and 10 Non-Breast Cancer Subjects
Bromide
Excretion
(mg/24 hours)
Breast Cancer
Barline
18.81
1 Dsrr Pair King I
26.25
3-0 Days Post
50m? day I
26.73
Bromide
Excretion
(mg/24 hours)
11.3
15.82
16.7
Non-Breast
Cancer
□ Breast Cancer □ Non-Breast Cancer
Iodine levels were low in all of the women tested. This is not surprising because, as previously
described in this book, iodine deficiency is occurring at an epidemic rate.
What shocked me was the difference in the levels of the toxic halogens bromide and fluoride.
Bromide levels were found to be significandy elevated in the breast cancer versus the non-breast cancer
subjects.
The fluoride testing ( Figure 21 . next page) showed similar results, with the breast cancer subjects
exhibiting higher fluoride levels as compared to the non-breast cancer subjects. Although the difference in
the fluoride levels were not as dramatic as the bromide levels, this data shows that breast cancer patients
are absorbing and retaining larger amounts of toxic halides as compared to non-breast cancer subjects. As
previously mentioned, fluoride is a toxic halide that should be avoided. Its anti-cavity promotion is a
seriously flawed idea that much of the Western world has rejected by removing fluoride from the water
supply. Topical fluoride may have some practical applications when applied to the growing tooth—
approximately from the age of 3-13. For adults, ingesting fluoride in our water supply in order to prevent
caries is a fallacious concept. Fluoride does not prevent cavities and it interferes with hundreds of
enzymes in the body and also causes thyroid dysfunction.
The way to reduce the body’s burden of toxic halides is to increase the body’s iodine levels.
Remember, the toxicity of fluoride and bromine will be exacerbated in an iodine-deficient state.
Figure 21: Fluoride Excretion in 8 Breast Cancer and 10 Non-Breast Cancer Subjects
Fluoride Excretion
(mg/24 hours) Breast
Cancer
Baseline
1.49
1 Day Post
50mg I
1.84
30 Days Post
fOmg/dav I
1.10
Fluoride Excretion
(mg/24 hours) Non-
Breast Cancer
1.13
1.24
1.30
I
*
I
3
fiHi
LBmxF
Ifl EnVa&l Kraft d
□ Breast Cancer □ Non-Breast Cancer
The use of iodine supplementation, as part of a holistic nutritional program which facilitates the
detoxification capabilities of the body, will allow the body to decrease its levels of toxic halides.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We are in the midst of a cancer epidemic. At the present time, one in three Americans will get
cancer. Cancer is not caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery deficiency. Cancer is a multifactorial
illness that will only be conquered when the underlying causes of cancer are properly thought out and
thoroughly dealt with.
There is no doubt that our exposure to toxic chemicals is increasing at the same time our nutrient
status is declining. Is it any wonder that cancer rates are reaching epidemic proportions? Currently one in
seven women (14%) has breast cancer and one in three men (33%) has prostate cancer. Iodine deficiency
coupled with the increasing toxic load in our bodies could explain a great deal about why these cancer
numbers are so high.
Iodine supplementation has multiple positive effects on the body. These positive effects are found in
many different illnesses from fatigue states to autoimmune disorders and cancer. It is important not only to
ensure adequate levels of nutrients in the body, but also to help the body utilize these nutrients by
enhancing the detoxification mechanisms. Iodine supplementation will not only provide a valuable
nutrient for the body, it will also aid in the detoxification process of the body. The next chapter will give
you information about detoxification. I believe ensuring an adequate iodine level is a crucial factor to
helping you achieve your optimal health.
- Levin, M. Bromide psychosis: four varieties. Am. J. Psych. 104:798-804, 1948
Clark. G. Applied Pharmacology. Churchill, London. 1938
— Sangster, B., et al. The influence of sodium bromide in man: A study in human volunteers with special
emphasis on the endocrine and the central nervous system. Fd. Chem. Toxic., 21: 409-419, 1983
— VanLeeuwen, FX. The toxicology of bromide ion. Crit. Rev. Toxicol. 1987; 18:189-213
— CAS Registry number: 74:83:9
— Horowitz, B. Bromism from excessive cola consumption. Clinical Toxicology, 35 (3), 315-320. 1997
— Pavelka, S. High bromide intake affects the accumulation of iodide in the rat thyroid and skin. Biol.
Trace elem. Res. 2001. summer; 82(1-3): 133
— Pavalka, S. Effect of high bromide levels in the organism on the biological half-life of iodine in the rat.
Biol. Trace elem. Res. 2001. summer; 82(1-3): 133
2 Buchberger, W. Effects of sodium bromide on the biosynthesis of thyroid hormones and
brominated/iodinated thyronines. J. Trace Elem. Elec. Health Dis. \bl.4. 1990, p. 25-30
— \bbecky, M. Effect of enhanced bromide intake on the-concentration ratio I/Br in the rat thyroid gland.
Bio. Trace Element Research, 43:509-513, 1994
11 Abraham, G. IBID. 9.09.03
— London, W.T. Bread-a dietary source of large quantities of iodine. New. Engl. J. Med. 273:381, 1965
— Abraham, G. The effect of ingestion of inorganic nonradioactive iodine/iodide in patients with simple
goiter and in Graves’ disease: A review of published studies compared with current trends. Optimox
Research. 9.09.03
— CDC. National Center for Health Statistics. Cdc.gov
— Hollowed, Je. Iodine nutrition in the United States. Trends and public health implications: Iodine
excretion data from National Health and Nutrition Examination surveys I and III. J. Clin. Endocrinol.
Metab. 83:3401-3408, 1998
— Colquhoun, G. New Evidence on fluoridation. Social Science and Medicine. 19. 1239-46. 1984.
— Galletti, P. Effect of fluorine on thyroidal iodine metabolism in hyperthyroidism
— Maumene, e. Experience pour determiner Faction des fluores sur l’econimie animale. Compt. Rend.
Acad. Sci (Paris) 39:538-539. 1854
— Endocrine Regulations. \bl. 32. p. 63-70. 1998
22 Lancet. May 27, 1972. Vol. 1. 1135-38
— 35 th Annual Meeting of the Society for Epidemiologic Research, Seattle, WA. June 2000.
22 Epidemiology. 1998; 9(1): 21-28, 29-35.
— Epidemiology. May 1999. 10:233-237
— Tonacchera, M. Relative potencies and additivity of perchlorate, thiocyanate, nitrate and iodide on the
inhibition of radioactive iodide uptake by the human sodium iodide symporter. Thyroid. 2004. 14. 1012-
19
— EPA. Perchlorate environmental contamination: toxicological review and risk characterization based
on emerging information. 1998
26 EPA. 1998. IBID.
Journal of the Am. Water Works Ass. 1957. 49(10): 1334-1342
— Environmental Working Group, 2005. From www.ewg.com .
— Environmental Working Group, 2005. From www.ewg.com .
— Ross, B. Ammonium perchlorate contamination of Colorado River drinking water is associated with
abnormal thyroid function in newborns in Arizona. J. of Occup. And Env. Medicine. \bl 42(8). August,
2000. p. 777-782
— U.S. EPA. Regional Agency 9 Lab. USEPA; August 16, 1999
— Fisher, D. Maternal-fetal thyroid function in pregnancy. Clin. Perinat. 1983; 10:615026
— WHO.
— Envirnonmental Working Group. IBID. 2005.
— Kirk, Andrea. Perchlorate and iodide in dairy and breast milk. Environ. Sci and Technol. 2000.
— Env. Health Persp. \bl. 116. N.6. June 2008
Chapter 12
Detoxification Questions and Answers
CHAPTER 12: DETOXIFICATION QUESTION AND ANSWERS
I have lectured extensively about iodine for over 12 years. After hearing my iodine lecture, the three
most frequentiy asked questions are:
1. Why do I need to take so much iodine?
2. Why do I need more iodine now than people needed 100 years ago?
3. How do I detoxify from the toxic halides, bromine and fluoride?
This chapter will provide you with the answers to these questions.
WHY DO WE NEED TO TAKE SO MUCH IODINE?
This is the most common question I am asked by both physicians and laypeople. The main reason we
need to ingest more iodine is that the majority of people are iodine deficient, many of them severely
iodine deficient. My experience has clearly shown that over 96% of my patients are low in iodine with
most of them severely low. How can that be?
Over the last 40 years, iodine levels have fallen over 50%. There are a number of reasons this has
occurred including the declining use of iodized salt.
If a lowered iodine intake was the only problem, it would be simple to rectify iodine deficiency
with iodine supplementation. However, there is more to the story.
Currendy, our exposure to the toxic halides-fluoride, bromide, and perchlorate-are occurring at
levels that humans have never been exposed to. The consequence of this is a worsening of the already
present iodine-deficiency problem
We discussed the toxic halides in the previous chapter. These include bromine, fluoride, and
chlorine derivatives. I have presendy tested over 1,000 patients for their bromine levels. I have found that
100% of them have tested for high bromine levels. Fluoride in our water supply also adds to this
problem Only through iodine supplementation and detoxification can you reverse this problem
Detoxification will be covered at the end of this chapter.
WHY DO WE NEED MORE IODINE NOW THAN PEOPLE DID 100 YEARS
AGO?
Invariably, I am asked, “Why do we need more iodine than our predecessors took?” There are a
number of factors that have led to the ‘perfect storm’ of iodine deficiency including:
1. Our food supply is remarkably deficient in iodine due, in part, to low salt intake.
2. The ingestion of brominated (instead of iodinated) bakery products leads to toxic
levels of bromine in the vast majority of our population. Furthermore, brominated
flour worsens an iodine-deficient condition.
3. Our continued exposure to brominated flame retardants in computers, furniture,
clothing, bedding, and other common consumer materials.
4. Fluoridation of our water supply. Fluoridation is bound to worsen an iodine
deficient problem by supplying a toxic halide on a continual basis.
5. The use of pesticides and insecticides for lawn care which contain toxic halides
such as bromine and chlorine derivatives.
6. The use of many medications that contain bromine or fluorine as part of their
chemical structure. A list of some of the brominated and fluoridated drugs is shown
In Chapter 11 .
When you take into account these six items, it is no wonder that we need larger iodine doses than
past generations of Americans. Unless our exposure to toxic halogens is decreased, we will continue to
need and require larger amounts of iodine as compared to our predecessors. We need the larger iodine
doses to help the body detoxify from the toxic halogens.
HOWTO DETOXIFY FROM THE TOXIC HALIDES
Now that we have established that there is no use in our body for the toxic halides, I will show you
four safe and simple steps to help you detoxify horn these toxic substances.
Step 1: Ensure Adequate Hydration
It is impossible to detoxify from any substance without maintaining adequate hydration. Water can
not only bring nutrients to the tissues of the body, it can help flush out toxins. My experience has shown
that maintaining adequate hydration is the single most important health factor in any detoxification
program. How much water should you drink? A rough estimate is to take your weight in pounds, divide by
2 and the resultant number is the amount of water you should drink in ounces per day. It is important to
drink clean water, bee of fluoride and chlorine derivatives. Reverse osmosis water is one such example.
It is important to ensure that you have adequate mineral intake when drinking reverse osmosis water. How
can you ensure adequate mineral intake when drinking reverse osmosis water? Simply add unrefined salt
to the water—see Step 2.
Step 2: Ingest Unrefined Salt
As previously mentioned, unrefined salt helps to rid the body of the toxic halide bromine. How is
this accomplished? Chloride and bromide, part of the halogen family, are next to each other on the
periodic table. Chloride is an effective competitive inhibiter of bromide. I have found it impossible to
lower bromine levels in my patients if they do not ingest unrefined salt. I suggest taking approximately 1-
1.5tsp/day of unrefined salt. For more information about unrefined salt, I refer the reader to my book, Salt
Your Way To Health.
Step 3: Take Antioxidants
Vitamin C can act as a potent antioxidant for both the fat and water-soluble tissues. Vitamin C can
also help stimulate the detoxification pathways of the body. I suggest taking 3000-6,OOOmg of vitamin
C/day. If you get diarrhea, lower the dose.
Selenium is a potent antioxidant. Our food supply is very deficient in selenium. Taking 100-
200pg/day of selenium can help the antioxidant status of the body and may improve thyroid functioning.
Step 4: Supplement With Iodine
Iodine will help the body release the toxic halides. My experience has shown that this effect only
occurs with larger (mg) doses of iodine. Generally a dose from 12-50mg/day is effective for most
people. Those with serious illnesses such as breast or prostate cancer may need more. As the toxic
halides are released, you may experience a detoxification reaction. This can include headaches, fatigue,
muscle aches, and palpitations. To minimize detoxification reactions, you can do Steps 1-3 for two weeks
before instituting iodine therapy.
Remember, the best results are achieved when you work with a health care practitioner
knowledgeable about iodine and the detoxification pathways. If you experience problems, please seek
advice.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This chapter was written to answer the most common questions I am asked by both doctors and
laypeople. The vast majority of our population is being exposed to ever-increasing amounts of toxic
halides and decreasing amounts of iodine. Is it any wonder that iodine-deficient illnesses such as
endocrine-related cancers (thyroid, breast, prostate, uterus, and ovary) as well as thyroid problems
(hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Graves’ disease) are increasing at near epidemic rates? I believe the
only solution to these common problems is to ensure adequate iodine intake in order to enable the body to
competitively inhibit and detoxify the toxic halides.
However, keep in mind, iodine is best used as part of a holistic treatment regimen that includes the
use of unrefined salt and antioxidants such as vitamin C.
Chapter 13
Iodine Dosage Guidelines
CHAPTER 13: IODINE DOSAGE GUIDELINES
Now that we have established that the RDA for iodine (approximately 150pg/day) is inadequate,
how much iodine should you take? There is some concern in the conventional literature that too much
iodine can harm the thyroid gland and cause other problems in the body. This chapter will explore how to
safely use iodine to achieve your optimal health.
The question of dosage cannot be answered without reviewing the iodine intake of the Japanese. It
has been estimated that the mainland Japanese ingest approximately 13.8mg of iodine per day, which is
approximately 100 times the RDA.- The Japanese receive most of their iodine from seaweed, which is
known to concentrate iodine.
What is the effect of ingesting this larger amount of iodine? The Japanese who consume these large
amounts (byU.S. RDA standards) of iodine have remarkably lower levels of breast, endometrial, and
ovarian cancers. In addition, as compared to American women, there is a significantiy lower amount of
fibrocystic breast disease in Japanese women. Mainland Japanese men have a significantly lower rate of
prostate cancer as compared to the U.S. male population including Japanese males who have migrated to
the United States. The medical literature has pointed out a possible relationship between all of these
cancers and iodine deficiency.
SEVEN CONCERNS WITH USING HIGH LEVELS OF IODINE
There is some concern that the ingestion of iodine in excess of the RDA-150pg/day-will cause
adverse effects. I will show you that with the proper monitoring and dosing, iodine in milligram doses is
safe and effective. There are seven major concerns with using iodine in excess of the RDA. Many
iodophobic individuals feel that milligram doses of iodine may cause:
1. Iodine allergy
2. Autoimmune thyroid disease
3. Detoxification reactions
4. Iodine-induced hypothyroidism and goiter
5. Iodine-induced hyperthyroidism
6. Iodism
7. Thyroid cancer
ALLERGY TO IODINE
In my experience, an allergy to inorganic iodine/iodide is a rare occurrence. An allergy to
radioactive iodine dye, commonly used in many medical imaging procedures, does not guarantee that
there is an allergy to inorganic iodine/iodide-such as in LugoTs or tableted LugoTs. In fact, my
experience has shown that it is a rare occurrence to have an allergy to inorganic iodine/iodide. During
twenty years of practice, I have seen three patients with an allergy to inorganic, non-radioactive iodine.
An allergy can take any form, including a rash, fatigue, congestion, headache, and fever. NAET, an
acupressure technique, has been useful in some of my patients to help them overcome an allergy to iodine.
More information on NAET can be found in the Appendix.
Joan, age 62, suffered from hypothyroidism for 20years. Although Joan’s symptoms improved on
a holistic treatment plan (detoxification, vitamins and minerals, and dietary changes), she still was not
feeling like she wanted to feel. When she was diagnosed with an iodine deficiency, I recommended that
she supplement with iodine. Joan was given an iodide/iodine supplement (Iodoral®) and immediately
felt better. “It was like waking up from a nap. Within one week, my head felt clearer and my energy
level improved. I have a busy job and I was having trouble keeping up with it,” she said.
Approximately two weeks after starting Iodoral®, Joan called me complaining of a rash on her body. I
told her to stop the iodine immediately. Joan told me, “I don’t want to stop it. This is the first time in
years that I have felt wonderful. ” I had Joan come into the office and treated her with NAET. Joan’s
allergy symptoms abated within 24 hours and she is currently taking iodine without any problems. She
continues to feel well today.
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE
Some researchers and endocrinologists believe that autoimmune thyroid problems are caused by
iodine intake in excess of the RDA. However, before the adoption of radioactive iodine to treat the side
effects of autoimmune thyroid illnesses, the use of higher doses of iodine was the treatment of choice for
these illnesses. There are numerous reports in the literature, some dating back well over 100 years,
showing the benefits of using iodine in excess of the RDA to treat autoimmune thyroid illnesses.- - - -
Chapters 4 -6 point out that autoimmune thyroid disorders are associated with low iodine levels, not high
levels.
As previously stated, in the United States, iodine levels have fallen more than 50% over the last 40
years while, at the same time, autoimmune thyroid disorders have been rapidly increasing.- If iodine was
the cause of autoimmune thyroid illnesses, these illnesses should have been decreasing over the last 40
years. The opposite has occurred.
My clinical experience has shown that in an iodine deficient state, higher doses of iodine are an
effective and safe way to treat autoimmune thyroid illness without appreciable side effects. Remember,
the best results are achieved as part of a comprehensive holistic treatment plan.
It is important to restate this: My partners and I have not seen AIT disease caused by iodine
supplementation. On the contrary, it is iodine deficiency that causes AIT disease.
DETOXIFICATION REACTIONS
In Chapter 11 . it was established that iodine could compete with the toxic halides, bromide and
fluoride. The study I undertook showed that the use of iodine resulted in the release of the toxic halides
from the body. If the body’s detoxification pathways are overloaded when the toxic halides are being
released, a detoxification reaction can be triggered. A detoxification reaction can take the form of fatigue,
muscle aches, fever, diarrhea, and brain fog, among others.
A detoxification reaction to iodine usage does happen—about 5% of the time. A detoxification
reaction can be minimized by using a comprehensive holistic treatment program including: nutritional
support (vitamins and minerals), balancing the hormonal system, getting the body’s pH balanced, eating
healthy foods, and other holistic treatments. One of the best ways to minimize a detoxification reaction is
to ensure adequate use of unrefined salt as well as supplementation with magnesium and vitamin C.
IODINE-INDUCED HYPOTHYROIDISM AND GOITER
When animals or humans that are iodine deficient are given large doses of iodine, there is a transient
decrease in thyroid hormone production (approximately 26-40 hours) until the body reestablishes its
equilibrium with iodine. - After that time, thyroid levels adjust to normal and signs of hypothyroidism do
not develop.
Many researchers point out the dangers of iodine by describing the goiter problems of the residents
of Hokkaido, Japan. A report in 1960 described how a significant portion of the population of Hokkaido,
Japan had developed goiter. Goiters were more common in seaweed fishermen and in villages where
seaweed was eaten in large quantities. The residents of Hokkaido, as well as other areas of Japan, were
found to be ingesting large amounts of iodine. The Japanese authors did not think that iodine was the
causative factor of the goiters since residents of inland areas had the same iodine intake as the residents in
Hokkaido, and they had no signs of increased goiter. Clearly, some other factor must have been involved.
However, many Western physicians seized on the Hokkaido data and erroneously claimed that excess
iodine ingestion was the cause of the rise in the goiter rate. Some still make this ridiculous assertion
today. Although no testing was done, goitrogens (such as bromide) could have caused the elevated goiter
picture. A follow-up study 27 years later found a similar iodine intake in Hokkaido residents but no signs
of excess goiter, therefore ruling out iodine as the cause.
I have spoken with other doctors who have used higher doses of iodine in the treatment of their
patients; they also report no increase in hypothyroid or goiter problems.- More about this concept will be
discussed in Chapter 16 .
IODINE-INDUCED HYPERTHYROIDISM
The use of iodine in a previously iodine-deficient population may result in a transient increase in
thyroid hormones. Studies have shown that the increase in thyroid hormones, which could lead to
hyperthyroid symptoms (e.g., palpitations, nervousness), will gradually decrease.— These side effects can
easily be monitored by routine lab tests and adjustments in dosages. Also, ensuring adequate amounts of
unrefined salt minimizes any side effects from iodine supplementation.
Researchers from Switzerland found that the correction of iodine deficiency not only decreased the
incidence of thyrotoxicosis, it also lowered the incidence of goiter, cretinism, and minor deficiencies of
intellect.— My experience has shown that iodine-induced hyperthyroidism is not a common occurrence.
IODISM
Iodism occurs when the dose of iodine is too high and results in a metallic taste in the mouth,
increased salivation, sneezing, headache, and acne. Also, sinus headache, especially headache in the
frontal area, and a sense of fever may be present. Iodism occurs in a small minority of patients and is
easily rectified by adjusting the dosage of iodine used.
Dr. Sherry Tenpenny claims that chlorophyll tablets will eliminate the metallic taste of iodine. Dr.
Flechas has reported similar results with chlorophyll. I have found that unrefined salt and vitamin C
powder also minimizes iodism.
THYROID CANCER
Thyroid cancers are a small minority of cancers in the United States representing 1% of all
cancers.— Women are affected in larger numbers than men, approximately 3:1.
There have been some reports in the literature that iodine supplementation can be associated with an
increased incidence of thyroid papillary cancer.— If iodine usage were the cause of thyroid cancer, then
the falling iodine levels would be expected to lead to lowered thyroid cancer levels. However, this has
not been the case. During the past several decades, when iodine levels have declined, the incidence of
thyroid cancer has markedly increased.— Perhaps iodine deficiency is the cause of the elevation in thyroid
cancers.
Iodine supplementation has been shown to significantiy improve the prognosis of thyroid cancer by
shifting the type of cancer to a more easily treatable (i.e., differentiated) form—
Radiation exposure has been positively correlated with thyroid cancer for more than 50 years. Over
the years, numerous studies have confirmed this link, including the problems at Chernobyl. One of the
treatments for exposure to radiation is iodine. Potassium iodide was given to residents of Poland and
Russia after the Chernobyl accident and has been hailed as a success in preventing more cases of thyroid
cancer.
In an iodine-deficient state, when exposed to radioactive iodine (such as in Chernobyl), the thyroid
gland will absorb large amounts of the radioactive iodine. This will lead to thyroid cancer. However, if
the thyroid gland is saturated with iodine, radioactive iodine will be absorbed in much smaller amounts
and the problems with thyroid cancer will be lessened.
As compared to the people surrounding Chernobyl, I predict the Japanese will have less adverse
effects from the Fukushima disaster because the Japanese, as a population, have a higher iodine intake.
It makes perfect sense to have the body sufficient with iodine before being subjected to a toxic
exposure of radioactive iodine.
HOW MUCH IODINE SHOULD YOU TAKE?
Now we are back to the question above. There is no perfect dose for everyone. The best way to
properly dose iodine is to test the body for its iodine status. This can easily be accomplished with an
iodine-loading test. The instructions for the loading test are detailed below.
Iodine-Loading Test
1. First morning urine is discarded.
2. Take 50mg of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®) with a glass of water.
3. Collect 24-hour urine. Include the first morning sample at the end of the 24-hour
collection.
4. Send a sample of the 24-hour urine for evaluation of iodine status.
The principle behind using the iodine-loading test has been well established. If the body was
saturated with iodine, one would expect that most of the 50mg of iodine ingested for the loading test
would be excreted. If, on the other hand, there was an iodine deficiency present, then more of the iodine
would be absorbed.
Research has shown that a 90% excretion (or 45mg of iodine) of a 50mg iodine-loading test would
indicate an iodine-sufficient state. Levels below 90% (or <45mg) would indicate an iodine-deficient
state. In this case, iodine supplementation can begin and retesting can be performed in the future. To find
out more about iodine testing, I refer the reader to FFP Labs or Hakala Labs (see Appendix).
Once an iodine-deficient state is determined, iodine supplementation can be implemented. I
recommend using a combination of iodine and iodide. This can be found in liquid or tablet form. The
Appendix will provide you more information on how to find an iodine supplement.
Chapter 1 established that iodine concentrates in all of the trillions of cells in the body. Not only
does it concentrate in the thyroid and breasts, it also accumulates in the prostate, salivary glands, skin,
intestines, and all the red and white blood cells throughout the body. Proper iodine supplementation needs
to address all of these issues. Approximately 12mg of iodine has been established as the optimal daily
dose of iodine/iodide for the breast and thyroid gland. However, this may not be adequate to address the
needs of the rest of the body.
Also, due to the contact with so many goitrogenic substances such as bromide, fluoride, and
chlorine, the daily iodine requirements maybe elevated for some. Depending on the iodine status of the
body, my experience has shown that the RDA for iodine-150pg/day-is inadequate not only for the thyroid
gland, but for the rest of the body as well.
We live in a toxic society, and are continually exposed to increasing amounts of goitrogens in our
environment. The increased toxic load and goitrogen exposure will necessitate an increased ingestion of
iodine. Although the dose should be individualized, my experience has shown that the dose can vary from
12-50mg/day for most adults. This is the daily dose that Dr. Guy Abraham, my mentor on iodine,
recommended. Some may need higher doses, particularly those with cancer or disease of the thyroid,
ovaries, uterus, breast, and prostate. This higher iodine dose can easily be followed by periodically
checking an iodine-loading test. A proper history and physical exam can also help guide dosing of iodine.
If using Lugol’s solution, keep in mind that 2 drops provides 12.5mg of a combination of iodine and
iodide.
IS IODINE SAFE DURING PREGNANCY?
The World Health Organization claims that iodine deficiency is the world’s greatest single cause of
preventable mental retardation. In the United States, iodine levels have fallen over 50% during the last 40
years.— Recent studies show that nearly 60% of U.S. women of childbearing age are deficient in iodine.—
Chapter 2 reviewed the reasons why iodine levels are falling.
The consequences of iodine deficiency during pregnancy are severe. For the fetus, iodine deficiency
can result in neurologic deficiencies and a lowered IQ. The worst case scenario is death. Iodine
deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with other illnesses in neonates and children including
cretinism, dwarfism, depression, and ADHD. Researchers have shown that neonatal mortality declines
over 50% when iodine deficiency is rectified. It is important to ensure that a woman has adequate iodine
intake before she becomes pregnant.
Researchers at the University of Texas have reported their concern about iodine deficiency during
pregnancy. “I think it is quite likely we’ve had subde neurological deficiencies in babies born in the U.S.
(to mothers with iodine deficiencies),” claimed one scientist.— The same researchers have called on the
U.S. government to boost Americans’ iodine intake.
Japanese women are estimated to ingest a minimum of 12mg of iodine per day—nearly lOOx the
RDA for iodine in the U.S. This amount of iodine has not resulted in widespread reports of problems to
Japanese newborn babies. In fact, the Japanese have a much lower infant mortality rate as compared to
the U.S.
It is vital to ensure that women of childbearing age ingest sufficient amounts of iodine. How much
iodine is this? No one truly knows the answer. Proper testing and monitoring of iodine levels can help
answer this question.
However, since Japanese women ingest a minimum of 12mg of iodine/day without reports of
adverse effects, this maybe a starting dose for women of childbearing age. My experience has shown this
dose to be extremely safe. If you are pregnant, I do not suggest adding iodine to your regimen without
consulting your doctor. Remember, the best results with any therapy will be obtained by working with an
iodine-knowledgeable healthcare practitioner.
SALIVA/SERUM IODIDE LEVELS
When iodine is taken orally, it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Iodine is transported into the target
cells of the body by an energy-dependent process. One atom of iodine is transported into the cells and two
atoms of sodium are transported out of cells via the sodium/iodide symporter (NIS).— — Recendy a
second mechanism for transport of iodine into the cells has been observed—the chloride/iodide
transporter known as pendrin.—
Iodine maybe absorbed through the intestines resulting in an elevated serum level of iodine, but the
target cells are unable to uptake the iodine. This can occur if the NIS and/or the pendrin transporter
systems are damaged. Certain goitrogens, such as bromide, can bind to the NIS causing damage to the
transport system. The end result of this damage would be iodine deficiency in the target cell. Dr. Abraham
and I reported a case history of my nurse, Denise, who had a transport defect of iodine.—
Upon taking iodine orally, the iodine is absorbed in the intestine. As serum levels of iodine increase,
iodine is transported into the target cells via the NIS or pendrin. One way to determine if the transport
mechanism for iodine is working is by measuring the saliva/serum iodide ratio. If the transport
mechanisms for iodine are properly functioning, the saliva levels of iodine will significandy increase
relative to the serum. A saliva/serum iodide level has been used in neonates to diagnose a congenital
iodide symporter defect.—
We (Drs. Abraham, Brownstein, and Flechas) have been evaluating saliva/serum iodide levels in a
series of patients. Initial results show that the normal saliva/serum iodide level is approximately 42. That
means that when iodine is being properly transported into the cells, the salivary fluid should have 42
times the iodine level that is found in the serum. If the saliva/serum levels are low, especially less than
20, a thorough search for a reason for the poor transport of iodine must be undertaken.
Goitrogens can bind to and damage the NIS and result in a lowered amount of iodine being
transported into the target cell.— Examples of these goitrogens include: fluoride, perchlorate, bromine,
and thiocyanate (from cigarette smoke). In the near-future, saliva/serum iodine levels will be used to
diagnose an iodine transport defect.
Bob, a 42-year-old accountant, had been taking 12.5mg of iodine/iodide for two years. Bob could
not tell a difference upon taking the iodine. Although he generally felt well, he complained of being
fatigued. His initial salivary/serum level was low at 9.3. Bob’s testing also showed that his serum
bromide levels were elevated — 147mg/L (normal <5mg/L). I increased Bob’s iodine dosage to
50mg/day. Immediately, he felt a boost in his energy. “I thought I was feeling pretty good until I
increased the iodine. Then I really felt good. Ttfter work I wasn’t so exhausted,” he said. Bob’s follow¬
up testing showed that his salivary/serum iodide levels improved to a healthier 48.6 and his bromine
level fell to 28.7mg/L.
Bromine is a toxic halide that has no known therapeutic value in the human body. Bromine, being
part of the halide family (along with iodine and fluoride) can not only compete and bind to the iodine
receptors in the body, it can also damage the NIS and block the target cells’ ability to absorb iodine. Due
to our increasing exposure to the toxic halogens (i.e., bromine and fluoride), as well as our exposure to
other goitrogens (perchlorate, thiocyanate, etc.), our need for iodine has actually increased. In Bob’s case,
a higher iodine intake was able to help his body overcome the bromine toxicity that was present.
We (Drs. Abraham and Brownstein) have reported on the repair of an iodine transport defect with
the use of vitamin C and unrefined sea salt (Celtic Sea Salt®).— This case study provides evidence that
the damage to the iodine transport mechanism can be repaired with a complete nutritional program.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Iodine, like any substance, can cause adverse effects (mentioned above). For individuals who are
unusually sensitive to supplements and medications, I would recommend starting with a low dose of
iodine and titrating the dose upward. Close monitoring of the symptoms can often guide the dosage.
It is vitally important that pregnant women and women of childbearing age ingest sufficient amounts
of iodine before they become pregnant. Compared to iodine deficiency, an adequate intake of iodine
improves IQ and decreases neonatal mortality.
To lessen side effects, iodine supplementation is more effective when it is given as part of a
complete nutritional program My clinical experience has shown that balancing vitamins, minerals, and
hormones along with iodine supplementation provides a better result as compared to using iodine as a
single agent.
The average iodine dosage that I have found to be the most effective ranges from 12-50mg/day.
Those with disease of the glands (e.g., breast or thyroid) may need more. To get the best results, it is best
to work with an iodine-knowledgeable health care provider.
- Nagataki, S. Thyroid function in chronic excess iodide ingestion: Comparison of thyroidal absolute
iodine uptake and degradation of thyroxine in euthyroid Japanese subjects. J. Clin. Endo. 27:638-647,
1967
- Trousseau, A. Lectures on clinical medicine. \bl. 1. Lecture XIX, Exophthalmic goiter of Graves’
disease, New Sydenham Society, London. 1868
- Thompson, W. Prolonged treatment of exophthalmic goiter by iodine alone. Arch. Int. Med. 45:481-502,
1930
- Plummer, H. Results of administering iodine to patients having exophthalmic goiter. JAMA. 1923; 80:
1955
- Thompson, W. The range of effective iodine dosage in exophthalmic goiter. Arch. Int. Med. 1930;
45:261-281
- Hollowed, JE et al. Iodine nutrition in the United States. Trends and public health implications: Iodine
excretion data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys I and III (1971-74 and 1988-94).
J Clin Endocrinol Metab 83:3401-3408. 1998.
- Wolf, Jan. Iodide goiter and the pharmacologic effects of excess iodide. American Journal of Med. \bl.
47. July, 1969
- Wolff, J. The temporary nature of the inhibitory action of excess iodide on organic iodine synthesis in
the normal thyroid. Endocrin. 45:504, 1949
- Personal communication with Dr. G. Abraham and Dr. J. Flechas
- Baltisberger, B. Decrease of incidence of toxic nodular goiter in a region of Switzerland after full
correction of mild iodine deficiency. Eur. J. Endocrin. 1995; 132:546
- Gurgi, G. Thyrotoxicosis incidence in Switzerland and benefit of improved iodine supply. Letter to the
Editor. The Lancet. \bl. 352. September 26, 1998
12 NIH pub. No. 96-4104. Bethesda, MD, 2000
- Harach, G. Thyroid cancer and thyroiditis in goitrous region of Salta, Argentina, before and after iodine
prophylaxis. Clin. Endocrin. 1995; 43: 701
— Schneider, Arthur. Carcinoma of follicular epithelium. In Werner and Ingbar’s The Thyroid. Lippincott
Wililams and Wilkins. 2000
— IBID. Schneider.
— J. Clin. Endocr. and Metab. 83:3401-8. 1998
12 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
— Env. Head. Persp. Abl. 116. N. 5. May 2008
— Brown-Grant, K. Extrathyroidal iodide concentrating mechanism. Physiol. Rev. 41:1961
— Spitzweg, C. Analysis of human sodium iodide symporter immunoreactivity in human exocrine glands.
J. Clin. Endocrin. And Metab. 84, 4178-4184 1999.
— Everett, L. Pendred syndrome is caused by a mutation in a putative sulphate transporter gene. Nat.
Genet. 17:1997
— Abraham, G and Brownstein, D. Evidence that the administration of Vitamin C improves a defective
cellular transport mechanism for iodine: A case report. The Original Internist. Vol. 12, No. 3. Fall 2005.
125-130.
— Viljder, J. Hereditary metabolic disorders causing hypothyroidism. In Werner and Ingbar’s the Thyroid.
Braverman, LE et al. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 733-742, 2000.
— Abraham, G.E. The historical background of the iodine project. The Original Internist. 12(2):57-66
2005 57-66
— Abraham, G., Brownstein, D. Evidence that the administration of Vitamin C improves a defective
cellular transport mechanism for iodine: A Case Report. The Original Internist. 2005; 12(3): 125-130
Chapter 14
Case Histories
CHAPTER 14: CASE HISTORIES
This chapter will contain several case histories that will illustrate how iodine deficiency is
recognized and treated. It will also provide the practitioner with information on how to approach the
patient with iodine deficiency.
I am a Physician’s Assistant in a primary care practice. I attended a conference in 2006 where Dr.
Brownstein lectured on iodine and thyroid disease. When I returned home, I placed my husband,
myself, and my three children on iodine. The results were nothing short of amazing, as we are all
remarkably better. My oldest daughter, Randi, experienced the most profound improvements. In her
early teen years, she experienced depression, weight gain, and she became bulimic. Randi seemed to
get sick easily and had frequent sinus infections. When she became 18 years old, she received a nice
scholarship to a wonderful university. She was often sick during her first semester. Randi went to see a
counselor after missing several classes and upon questioning her, the counselor thought she was
suicidal. She was admitted to a local hospital psychiatric ward and was placed on several
medications. Randi’s psychiatrist had her on seven different medications and she could not function
normally. She also continued to be bulimic despite counseling. We decided to take her off all of the
medications. I sent her to a doctor who prescribed natural progesterone which helped.
When I returned from Dr. Brownstein’s conference and placed Randi on iodine (Iodoral®), we saw
another improvement. She immediately started thinking clearer and her energy level dramatically
increased. Randi was able to sleep better at night and her allergies improved. Arfter witnessing the
incredible positive improvement in her health from supplementing with iodine, I now realized that my
focus should be looking at optimizing Randi’s thyroid function. Many of my family members, including
myself, have a history of thyroid problems. I found Randi to have an elevated TSH level (6.0mIU/L —
normal levels 0.2-4.7mIU/L). She is now seeing a physician in Atlanta who has placed her on
desiccated thyroid.
The change in my daughter has been amazing. Her face has slimmed down, she is not chronically
depressed, and her hair is not falling out. She says she can eat like a normal person and told me the
other day that she is no longer bulimic. Her acne has also resolved, as has the swelling in her ankles.
She is not on any prescription medications except for progesterone and thyroid and she takes her
Iodoral® faithfully. I believe that the iodine therapy was the catalyst for helping my daughter
overcome her serious health issues.
Randi’s case is not unique. I have seen many psychiatric issues resolve when iodine deficiency is
rectified. Perhaps psychiatrists should investigate iodine levels before reflexively putting patients on
mood-altering medications.
Betty is an 82-year-old female who has a twenty-five year history of thyroid nodules and
intermittent hyperthyroid symptoms. Betty was advised to receive radioactive iodine to treat her
condition, but she refused. As explained in Chapter 6 . radioactive iodine does not treat any underlying
cause of a thyroid illness. I believe that radioactive iodine should be the last choice in treating any
thyroid disorder.
Betty was given an iodine-loading test with 50mg of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). Her initial iodine¬
loading test showed a very low iodine excretion with a 35% excretion measured (normal >90%).
Betty’s initial thyroid ultrasound showed an enlarged thyroid gland with a total volume of 13.1ml. She
also had large nodules in both the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland.
Betty was placed on 50mg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). Betty was also treated with vitamin C,
unrefined sea salt (Celtic Sea Salt®) and magnesium. The vitamin C can function as an antioxidant and
can help support the body’s detoxification pathways. Celtic Sea Salt® can supply the body with
chloride which aids in detoxifying toxic halides (bromide and fluoride). Celtic Sea Salt® is also a good
source of minerals. Magnesium is a relaxing agent for the body and can help prevent hyperthyroid
symptoms caused by a detoxification of toxic halides.
After two months of taking SOmg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®), Betty felt much better. Her
energy improved and she felt that her brain fog had resolved. A repeat thyroid ultrasound showed the
size of the thyroid gland decreased to 10.3ml—a 22% decline. In addition, all of the nodules were
noted to be smaller from the previous ultrasound. Betty’s thyroid levels were unchanged from taking
50mg of iodine.
Update on Betty’s case: Betty is still taking iodine and still doing well. On physical exam, her
thyroid continues to decrease in size.
New (5 th Edition) update on Betty’s case: Betty continues to supplement with iodine. Betty’s
follow-up thyroid ultrasound is now read as normal. When I told her I was writing a new edition to this
book, she said, “Make sure you put in there how much better I am feeling. ”
Before the usage of iodine/iodide in milligram doses, it was rare to see thyroid nodules and a
hypertrophied thyroid gland shrink in size. Now it is common in my practice. Only with the proper dose
of iodine/iodide (in mg doses) have I found thyroid nodules to recede.
David is a 48-year-old health club owner. David was diagnosed with thyroid cancer ten years ago and
had a thyroidectomy followed by chemotherapy. He was placed on Synthroid® and had his dose of
Synthroid® titrated until his thyroid levels showed a euthyroid state. However, after the surgery, David
gained 50 pounds of weight and never felt the same. “I exercised all the time and I couldn’t lose an
ounce. It did not matter whether I ate or not. I kept telling my doctors that I did not feel right—I was
always tired and I couldn’t think straight,” he said. When I saw David, his physical exam showed a
slight edematous feeling around the lower neck in the area of his thyroidectomy. David claimed, “I
always told my doctor that I felt something around my neck. They kept telling me that nothing was
there since I had my thyroid removed. ” An iodine-loading test showed David was extremely low in
iodine—he had one of the lowest loading tests that I have seen—0.3% excretion (normal >90%). David
was also found to be excreting large amounts of the toxic halide bromide (see figure on next page).
Bromide is a toxic element and no bromide should be present in the body. David was started on 50mg
of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®), and his iodine and bromide levels were reevaluated at 1 day and 30 days.
His results are seen in the figure below. Due to the large amounts of bromide, David was treated with a
holistic regimen designed to support his detoxification pathways. This included vitamin C, unrefined
salt (Celtic Sea Salt®), and liver support. Two months later he reported, “My brain fog cleared and I
began to lose weight for the first time since the surgery. It is a miracle. ” Also, the edema around the
lower neck resolved and David no longer felt as if his neck was being squeezed.
Case History David: Iodide/Bromide Levels Before and After Iodine Supplementation
□ Bromide
□ Iodide
Update on David’s case: David is still taking iodine. His bromide levels have now started to
decline. All swelling of the thyroid gland is gone.
New (5 th Edition) update on David’s case: David continues to feel well. He recently stated at a
routine office visit, “I am still amazed at how much better I feel with iodine. I can’t understand why
more doctors aren’t prescribing it.”
Iodine deficiency is associated with hypertrophy of the thyroid gland as well as hyperplasia of the
thyroid gland. Oftentimes, when there is iodine deficiency present, the physical exam will reveal an
edematous feeling in the thyroid area of the neck, often like there are “cotton balls” surrounding the
thyroid gland. Patients will often report to me that they have a swollen feeling of the thyroid gland. Most
times, when iodine deficiency is rectified, the edematous feeling will resolve. The treatment for thyroid
cancer must include identifying and treating the underlying cause(s) of the illness. The conventional
approach to thyroid cancer relies on the use of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, thyroid
cancer does not develop because of a deficiency of thyroid surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. A
treatment can only be effective if it treats the underlying cause of the condition. Research has shown that
iodine can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) of thyroid cancer cells.-
As stated previously, there is no doubt that iodine deficiency plays a large role in the development
of thyroid cancer (as well as other cancers). Only with rectifying iodine deficiency, coupled with a
comprehensive treatment plan that emphasizes optimizing the function of the immune system, will people
be able to prevent and overcome these serious disorders.
Janice, a 52-year-old nurse (my nurse) was complaining of intermittent fatigue and muscle aches.
A the beginning of our work day, I could tell how Janice was feeling by the way she walked down the
hall. If she was feeling well, she had a bounce in her step. If she was feeling down, she would have a
slight slouch to her body and slowness in her step. Usually by the end of a busy day, Janice would be
extremely fatigued and complain of muscle and joint pain. “Sometimes my feet and legs would just be
killing me by the end of the day,” she said. Janice was very sensitive to all medications and
supplements. She frequently took children’s doses of items because she had such a sensitive system.
She did not want to do an iodine loading test because she feared taking the loading dose of iodine —
50mg. I elected to therapeutically treat her with 12.5mg of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). Immediately, she
felt better. “All of my pain was gone in three days. After two weeks, my energy zoomed higher. I was no
longer aching at the end of the work day; I felt great,” she claimed. After four weeks of taking 12.5mg
Iodoral®/day, she developed mild palpitations. I told her to stop the iodine and the palpitations
subsided one day later. Janice was instructed to take 12.5mg Iodoral® three days per week. In
addition, she was placed on a vitamin and mineral regimen. Janice did well for the next five months
until one day at work I saw her limping down the hall. I asked her why she was limping and she told
me, “I feel terrible. Everything aches and my feet are killing me.” When I asked her if she was taking
the iodine, she told me that she quit it one week ago. Incredulously, I asked her “why?” She told me
that she thought she had enough in her body. After a few terse comments, I instructed her to resume the
iodine dose. By the time Janice had taken her third iodine dose, all of her symptoms again resolved.
Update on Janice’s case: Janice never misses an iodine dose now. “I learned my lesson. It truly
made a huge difference in my life. I know I would not feel well without it,” she said.
Shirley, at 69-years-old, is very sensitive to medications and supplements. She also happens to be
my mother-in-law. Shirley was on 6.25mg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®) to help treat many
hypothyroid symptoms including cold extremities, hair loss, dry skin, and fatigue. All of her symptoms
improved significantly with the iodine supplementation. Furthermore, she was able to stop taking
thyroid hormone due to the positive effects of the iodine. Approximately four months after starting the
iodine regimen, Shirley developed palpitations. Now, having your mother-in-law develop palpitations
is not a good thing. The palpitations ceased after two days without the iodine. Shirley was instructed
to take microgram doses of iodine in the form of Atomidine® (Edgar Cayce’s iodine formulation) three
days per week. Since reducing her dose, all of her hypothyroid symptoms have improved and she is not
having palpitations. Shirley’s case is very rare. I have only had to use microgram amounts of iodine a
few times over the last 12 years. This has occurred in patients who are extremely sensitive to nearly
everything.
The above cases illustrate that every patient needs to have an individualized treatment plan. Those
that are sensitive to medications may need a lowered dose, and may need to titrate their dose of iodine. If
one is deficient in iodine, it is rare not to be able to find an appropriate dose to improve the clinical
condition.
Amanda, a 23-year-old fitness instructor, complained of coldness of her extremities and fatigue.
“I teach four aerobic classes per day and I am exhausted after each class,” she said. Amanda’s
saliva/serum of iodide could not be calculated since her iodine level was too low. In addition, she was
found to have a large amount of bromide in her serum (127mg/L). As established in Chapter 11 .
bromide is a toxic halogen that inhibits iodine absorption and binding in the body. Amanda was
started on 25mg/day of iodine/iodide (Iodoral®). Immediately, her symptoms improved. “I was not
exhausted after teaching my aerobics class. Also, my hands and feet warmed up,” she said. Amanda
was also complaining of a rash on her skin after teaching a pool aerobics class. The pool was
sanitized with bromine. After taking the iodine, the rash immediately disappeared. Follow-up testing
revealed that Amanda’s saliva/serum iodide improved to 42.5 and her serum bromine level fell to
16.7mg/L.
Update on Amanda’s case: Amanda has now been on iodine for three years. “I would not stop
taking it because it makes me feel so good. The biggest difference I have found is that my energy level
declines when I go a few days without iodine,” she said.
New (5 th Edition) update on Amanda’s case: Amanda continues to take 25mg/day of iodine. She
has had her first baby and took the same dose of iodine throughout her pregnancy. Amanda recently
reported to me, “Of all the things I have taken over the years, iodine is the best. If I miss taking it for a
few days, I start to get puffy and my energy drops. My body will tell me when I forget to take iodine. I
never want to stop taking it. ”
Amanda’s case is very common. The correction of iodine deficiency can resolve the symptoms of
hypothyroidism In fact, if there is iodine deficiency and hypothyroidism present, iodine deficiency needs
to be corrected first. This was explained in Chapter 6 . In Amanda’s case, correcting an iodine deficit was
probably helping the body rid itself of the toxic halide bromine. The improvement in her skin was
evidence of this.
Kim, a 42-year-old business woman, wanted desperately to have another child. She said, “My son
is 11 and I want him to have a brother or sister. ” Kim had two miscarriages over the last two years
and she had a difficult time getting pregnant. Her first pregnancy was very hard for her as she was
extremely fatigued and had a very difficult delivery. Kim was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after the
birth of her first child and placed on thyroid hormone (Armour® thyroid). “I did feel better with the
Armour® thyroid, but I was still cold. The worst thing was that my energy never really returned after
the birth of my son,” she said. Kim heard a lecture that I gave on iodine and had her iodine levels
checked. Her iodine-loading test was low at 22% excretion (normal >90%) and she was placed on
SOmg/day of Iodoral®. “I felt a huge change immediately. My energy returned and all of my remaining
hypothyroid symptoms resolved within weeks. It felt like a miracle,” she said. Kim became pregnant
shortly after starting the iodine supplementation and she delivered a healthy baby boy nine months
later. During the pregnancy, she continued the iodine supplement. “At 42 years old, this was the
easiest pregnancy. I gained 16 pounds and could fit into all my regular clothes right after I delivered.
My midwife was amazed at how easy this pregnancy was on me. I wasn’t even fatigued after the
delivery. I wish that I had taken iodine earlier in my life,” she claimed.
Kim’s story is repeated over and over in my practice. Iodine supplementation often helps improve a
hypothyroid condition. Many times, even with the supplementation of thyroid hormone, some hypothyroid
symptoms still remain. My experience has shown that the best results in treating a thyroid condition will
occur when iodine deficiency is rectified.
- Vitale, M. Endocrinology. 2000 Feb; 141(2):598-605.
Chapter 15
Questions and Answers
CHAPTER 15: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
This chapter will help to answer common questions regarding iodine.
Q: Is there a difference between Lugol’s iodine and tableted LugoTs such as Iodoral® or
Iodozyme HP™?
A No. Al three items contain iodine and iodide. Two drops of LugoTs equals one Iodoral® or
Iodozyme HP™ tablet (with both supplying 12.5mg of iodine/iodide). LugoTs solution has a fairly
strong metallic taste that many find offensive. For doses under 50mg, I generally prefer tableted
iodine. For doses greater than 50mg, I suggest taking LugoTs iodine since the price is less expensive.
Q: Do children need iodine?
A: Yes. Children and adults need adequate amounts of iodine. Children need smaller amounts due
to their size. Iodine dosing guidelines for children were covered in Chapter 10 .
Q: Is the iodine patch test reliable?
A No. The iodine patch test does not provide useful information on the body’s total iodine status.
Approximately 20% of the body’s iodine load is found in the skin. The iodine patch test may provide
information about how much iodine is in the skin, but the studies have not been done to verify that.
One study found that over 85% of the iodine applied to the skin sublimated (evaporated) into the air. A
more reliable indicator of the total body iodine load is the 24-hour urinary iodine-loading test.
Q: If I have no thyroid gland, do I need iodine?
A: Yes. Iodine is found in all the tissues of the body, not just the thyroid gland. Even without a
thyroid gland, the rest of the body needs iodine.
Q: Does iodine supplementation cause goiter?
A No. Iodine deficiency causes goiter. Medical research has shown this for over 100 years.
Q: Does everyone need to take 50mg/day of iodine?
A: No. There is no single dose that is effective for everyone. I suggest working with a health care
provider who is iodine knowledgeable.
Q: Is iodine deficiency more prevalent now than it was in the past?
A Yes. Due to the increased toxicity of our modern surroundings, iodine deficiency is more
pronounced now. The onslaught of chemicals and goitrogens such as bromine and fluoride has risen
dramatically over the last 40years. What has happened to our iodine levels during that time period?
They have fallen by over 50%. Goitrogens can bind to iodine receptors and also bind to and damage
the transport mechanisms for iodine. Goitrogens can exacerbate the iodine-deficiency problem that
already is present. Combined with a declining nutrient level in our food supply, it is no wonder that
people need to ingest larger amounts of iodine compared to past times.
Q: Does iodine cause autoimmune thyroid illness such as Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease?
A No. Autoimmune thyroid illnesses have been increasing over the last 40 years, while iodine
levels have been falling. If iodine was the cause of autoimmune thyroid illness, as iodine levels fall,
you would expect to see a decline in the incidence of Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease. That has not
happened. In fact, the opposite has happened-over the last 40 years, autoimmune thyroid illnesses
have increased at epidemic rates.
Q: Are there side effects with iodine supplementation?
A: There are potential side effects from supplementing with anything, iodine included. With
proper follow-up visits and monitoring, adverse effects are easily treated. Chapters 5 -7 review how to
minimize adverse effects with autoimmune thyroid disorders and Chapter 13 describes the adverse
effects of iodine in more detail.
Q: Why hasn’t conventional medicine recognized that iodine deficiency is still present today?
A: A natural product cannot be patented. A patentable product can be very profitable for a
pharmaceutical company. Big Pharma cartel’s main interest is to make a profit. Big Pharma has shown
little interest in any natural product because they cannot maximize their profits on non-patentable
products. Furthermore, most of the money for drug research is controlled by pharmaceutical
companies. Big Pharma has no financial interest in looking at any inexpensive natural product,
including iodine.
Q: Does iodine deficiency cause breast cancer?
A Breast cancer is a multi-factorial illness. However, the evidence linking iodine deficiency to
breast cancer is overwhelming. Iodine deficiency may or may not be the sole cause of the epidemic of
breast cancer that is plaguing us today, but it certainly plays a very large role in this illness. I do not
think you can adequately treat a chronic illness like breast cancer without looking for the underlying
cause. Breast cancer is not caused by a deficiency of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. I have no
doubt that iodine deficiency, coupled with the increased toxic load of our environment, is a major part
of the reason why we have an epidemic of breast cancer.
Q: Don’t I get enough iodine from salt?
A No. The iodine in salt is not very bioavailable for our bodies. In addition, many people are
avoiding salt entirely in their diets. Refined salt is a toxic substance for our bodies and needs to be
avoided. Unrefined salt is a much healthier substance for us. For more information, I refer the reader
to my book, Salt Your Way to Health.
Q: Can I get too much iodine?
A: Yes. You can get too much of anything. It is essential to have proper follow-up with your health
care provider. A previously stated, adverse effects from ingesting excess iodine can be easily treated
with an adjustment of the dose. Keep in mind that if you have normal kidney function, excess iodine
ingestion should be easily excreted by the kidneys.
Q: Do I have to lower the dose of my thyroid medication when I start taking iodine?
A It varies for everybody, but my experience has shown that one-third of the people being treated
with thyroid hormone can lower or significantly reduce their level of thyroid hormone when starting
iodine. The other two-thirds of the people taking thyroid hormone can remain on the same dosage. If
there are any palpitations when starting iodine, consult with your physician about decreasing the
thyroid dose. Aso, some patients who are already taking thyroid hormone find when they start
supplementing with iodine, they will no longer need thyroid hormone. Proper monitoring by an iodine-
knowledgeable health care practitioner can help guide you.
Q: Does iodine supplementation cause palpitations?
A In some people it does. Iodine supplementation works best as part of a holistic treatment
regimen emphasizing vitamins, minerals, and hormone balancing. A few patients are very sensitive to
everything they take. Sometimes I have my patients take iodine every other day. Each person needs an
individualized dose.
Q: Is iodine an antioxidant?
A The research is clear; iodine, like vitamin C, can function as both an antioxidant and an
oxidant. In fact, iodine is one of the most potent antioxidant substances known. We need a balance in
our bodies between both antioxidants and oxidants. Iodine, like vitamin C, can help to provide this
balance.
Q: Can iodine supplementation cause a flare of Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease?
A: Yes. However, if iodine is given as part of a comprehensive holistic treatment program, my
clinical experience has shown this to be a very rare occurrence. It is important to provide the proper
nutrients to slow down the oxidative damage that occurs in autoimmune thyroid illness (covered in
Chapters 5 -7). Unrefined salt, vitamin C, selenium, and magnesium supplementation all help to minimize a
flare. These nutrients can be taken for 2-4 weeks before beginning iodine therapy to minimize the risk of
precipitating a flare.
Chapter 16
Final Thoughts: Overcoming Medical Iodophobia
CHAPTER 16: FINAL THOUGHTS. OVERCOMING MEDICAL IODOPHOBIA
“Medical iodophobia is the unwarranted fear of using and recommending inorganic, non-radioactive
iodine/iodide within the range known from the collective experience of three generations of clinicians to
be the safest and most effective amounts for treating the symptoms and signs of iodine/iodide deficiency—
from 12.5-50mg/day.” Medical iodophobia was the term coined by my mentor on iodine, Dr. Guy
Abraham.
Dr. Abraham meticulously went through the history of iodine in medicine and wrote a series of
articles about iodine in The Original Internist . These articles can be accessed at: www.optimox.com .
It is unbelievable to me that in our modern times, most doctors do not understand and are unwilling
to learn about the importance of maintaining optimal iodine levels. Every cell in the body needs and
requires iodine to function optimally. The white blood cells cannot fight infection without iodine. Iodine
is concentrated by the glandular tissue in order to maintain a normal glandular architecture. Furthermore,
each gland requires adequate iodine levels in order to produce hormones. There is not a single hormone
in the body that can be produced without sufficient iodine.
As I have described in this book, iodine deficiency leads to severe consequences which include an
increased cancer risk in the breast, ovary, uterus, thyroid, and prostate. Furthermore, low iodine levels
lead to a host of serious illnesses such as autoimmune thyroid illness, hypothyroidism, a poorly
functioning immune system, fatigue, ADHD, autism, and heart disease, booking at the therapeutic effects
of iodine makes it hard to comprehend that medical iodophobia still exists, but, unfortunately, it is alive
and present today.
WHY DOES MEDICAL IODOPHOBIA STILL EXIST TODAY?
For over 13 years, nearly every new patient that has come to my office (including my partners’
patients) has had his/her iodine levels assessed. The numbers don’t lie: After testing over 6,000 patients,
iodine deficiency is occurring over 96% of the time. During this same time period, when iodine levels are
determined to be low, I have been recommending iodine supplementation. I can unequivocally state that
iodine therapy provides more positive results than any other item—including drugs and supplements.
Seeing the positive results on a daily basis makes me ask myself, “How can so many doctors still be
afraid of using iodine?” I will try to answer that question throughout this chapter.
DOES IODINE CAUSE HYPOTHYRODISM?
When I am lecturing, this is one of the most common questions I am asked by physicians. Although I
described iodine-induced hypothyroidism in Chapter 13 . 1 would like to add to the discussion here. After
treating thousands of patients—between myself and my partners—we have seen a grand total of two
patients who developed iodine-induced hypothyroidism. That is less than 0.1% of the patients we have
treated. Although it can occur, it is not very common. Reading and receiving many holistic and
conventional doctor rants about iodine would have you believe that iodine-induced hypothyroidism is a
common side effect of using iodine therapy. It is not.
The reason many doctors think iodine-induced hypothyroidism is a common side effect of iodine
therapy is that they do not understand the biochemistry and physiology of iodine. For some patients, at the
start of iodine therapy, the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level increases. I would estimate that the
TSH rises in approximately 25% of patients who begin iodine supplementation. In fact, the TSH level can
rise above the laboratory reference range. How high can it go? For most patients, it can rise to 5-15mIU/L
(normal 0.5-4.5mIU/L) for a up to six months.
Does a rising TSH indicate hypothyroidism? Not necessarily. In the vast majority of cases—at least
95%-a rising TSH due to iodine supplementation does not represent iodine-induced hypothyroidism I
have been lecturing to doctors about this concept for over ten years. Doing a history and physical exam as
well as following all of the thyroid tests can distinguish a normal and expected iodine-supplemented TSH
increase from a TSH increase that indicates hypothyroidism
A hypothyroid TSH increase is associated with lowered thyroid hormone levels—T3, T4, and
reverse T3. Furthermore, a hypothyroid TSH increase is also accompanied with clinical signs of
hypothyroidism such as fatigue, headaches, coldness, dry skin, weight gain, etc.
A normal and expected TSH increase with iodine therapy is not accompanied with lowered thyroid
hormone levels. In fact, T3, T4, and reverse T3 often improve with iodine therapy. Most importantiy, the
patient will not complain of feeling poorly with iodine therapy—they generally report feeling better. I can
guarantee you that,, if a patient reports to feeling better with iodine supplementation, it is not causing
hypothyroidism
Keep in mind that, when starting iodine therapy, an elevated TSH is an expected and normal
response of the pituitary gland. As I discussed previously, TSH stimulates sodium-iodide symporter (NIS)
formation. NIS is needed to transport iodine from the blood stream into the cells. If there is little iodine,
there is little need for NIS. Once iodine is supplemented, the body needs to make more NIS. It requires
elevated TSH to do this. It usually takes three to six months to saturate the cells with iodine. At that point
TSH levels will decline back to the reference range. Simply following thyroid hormone levels and doing
a history and physical exam can quickly put to rest the idea that iodine is causing hypothyroidism
FINAL THOUGHTS
Unfortunately, medical iodophobia is still alive and well. However, it is the result of misinformation
and ignorance. Understanding the biochemistry and physiology behind iodine should cure anyone of
medical iodophobia. After treating thousands of patients and lecturing to many health care professionals
and hearing their stories of success with using iodine, I am sure that medical iodophobia can be
overcome.
APPENDIX: RESOURCES
1. Iodoral® can be purchased from:
Individual orders for Iodoral can be purchased at Center for Holistic Medicine (Dr. Brownstein’s office):
1.866.877.6467 or www.centerforholisticmedicine.com
2. For iodine testing and the iodine-loading test as well as bromide and fluoride testing contact:
FFP Lab ( www.ffplab.org l
1.877.900.5556
Hakala Labs ( www.hakalalabs.com l
303.763.6242
Doctors Data ( www.doctorsdata.com l
800.323.2784
3. For allergies to iodine, NAET (Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique) can be helpful. To find
anNAET practitioner please call: 1.714.523.3068 or look on the internet: www.naet.com
4. A compounding pharmacist can make up Lugol’s solution or bioidentical hormones. To find a
compounding pharmacist, please contact:
The International Academy of Compounding
Pharmacists (IACP)
iacpinfo@iacprx.org
(800)-927-4227
Fax: 281-495-0602
Index
A
Allergy 222-224, 252, 254
Anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies 98, 99, 120
Apoptosis 103, 153-4, 183
Autoimmune thyroid disorders 70-71, 85, 91, 105-111, 115, 120-125, 127-128, 130, 133, 144-145, 254-
255
B
Bisphenol A178
Breast Cancer 151-182
Bromide/Bromine 42-43, 48-50, 54, 217-223, 231, 233
C
Chloride 48-49, 226
Chlorine 51, 217, 226-227
Crohn’s Disease 141
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 107, 111
Colorectal Cancer 142
Cretinism 29, 43-44, 48
D
Delta () - iodolactone 100-101, 103, 105-107, 110, 120-135
Detoxification 100-115, 132, 135, 234-235, 241, 243-246, 252-253, 255
E
Estrogen 157-163, 171-178
F
Fibrocystic breast disease, 73, 76, 162-165, 174-175, 182
Fibromyalgia96, 107, 111
Fluoride 48, 49, 54, 217, 223-226, 231, 233-234
G
Glutathione 141, 144-146
Glutathione peroxidase 143-146
Goiter 29-35, 43, 45-46, 54, 70-71, 73, 76, 120, 125-126, 222, 224-225, 227
Goiter belt 34
Goitrogen 222-223
Graves’ Disease 70, 73, 85, 90, 106, 108, 119-121, 125-127, 130-135, 289, 293
Growth Hormone 194-196
H
Halide channel 96
Hashimoto’s Disease 70, 73, 85, 88, 90, 97, 99, 101, 106, 108, 110-111, 120-121, 125, 130, 132, 134-
135, 289, 293
Hydrogen peroxide 98-99, 107, 109
Hyperthyroidism 74, 85-87, 120, 122-124, 127-128, 130-133
Hypothyroidism 35-36, 70, 72-74, 78-79, 81-82, 84-85, 87-91, 120, 125, 130, 134-135, 246
Iodinated lipids 105-107
Iodine in food 33-34
Iodine-induced hyperthyroidism 252, 257
Iodine-induced hypothyroidism 252, 256
Iodine loading test, 260-262, 302
Iodism252, 258
Iodized salt 44, 46-47, 49, 73
L
Lugol’s Iodine 59-61, 63, 262
Lung Cancer 142
M
Magnesium 107, 110, 113
Methimazole 127
Mitochondria 106, 109-110, 113
N
NAET 253-254
O
Organification 95-98, 100-101, 104-106
Ovarian cancer 166, 174
Oxidation 95-96, 98-100, 104-105, 107, 113
P
Percholate 50-51, 227-231
Pituitary gland 83
Propylthiouracil 127
Prostate cancer 142, 176-177, 178, 182
R
Radioactive iodine 127-128, 130, 132-133
S
Saliva/serum iodide 264-266
Salt 41, 44, 46-49, 217, 242-243, 245, 247
Selenium 139-146
Stomach cancer 166
T
T3 69, 71, 78, 84-85, 97, 100-101
T4 69, 71, 78, 84-85, 97, 100-101
Thyroperoxidase (TPO) 98-99, 105, 107-109
TSH 71, 83-85, 91
Thyroid cancer 71, 73, 129
V
Vitamin B-2 112
Vitamin B-3 112
Vitamin C 10, 293
X
Xenoestrogens 178
Books by David Brownstein, M.D.
More information: www.drbrownstein.com
Vitamin B12 for Health
Vitamin B12 deficiency is occurring in epidemic numbers. This book show you the many benefits of
using natural, bioidentical forms of vitamin B12 and how B12 supplements can help you achieve your
optimal health. B12 therapy can treat many common ailments including:
• Anemia
• Autoimmune Illness
• Blood Clots
• Brain Fog
• Cognitive Decline
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• Heart Disease
• Muscle Disease
• Neurologic Problems
• Osteoporosis
• AND MUCH MORE!
IODINE: WHY YOU NEED IT. WHY YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT IT. 5 th EDITION
Iodine is the most misunderstood nutrient. Dr. Brownstein shows you the benefit of supplementing
with iodine. Iodine deficiency is rampant. It is a world-wide problem and is at near epidemic levels in
the United States. Most people wrongly assume that you get enough iodine from iodized salt. Dr.
Brownstein convincingly shows you why it is vitally important to get your iodine levels measured.
He shows you how iodine deficiency is related to:
• Breast cancer
• Hypothyroidism and Graves’ disease
• Autoimmune il lnesses
• Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
• Cancer of the prostate, ovaries, and much more!
OVERCOMING ARTHRITIS
Dr. Brownstein shows you how a holistic approach can help you overcome arthritis, fibromyalgia,
chronic fatigue syndrome, and other conditions. This approach encompasses the use of:
• Allergy elimination
• Detoxification
• Diet
• Natural, bio identical hormones
• Vitamins and minerals
• Water
DRUGS THAT DON’T WORK and NATURAL THERAPIES THAT DO. 2 nd Edition
Dr. Brownstein’s newest book will show you why the most commonly prescribed drugs may not be
your best choice. Dr. Brownstein shows why drugs have so many adverse effects. The following
conditions are covered in this book: high cholesterol levels, depression, GERD and reflux
esophagitis, osteoporosis, inflammation, and hormone imbalances. He also gives examples of natural
substances that can help the body heal.
See why the following drugs need to be avoided:
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins such as Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Crestor and Zetia)
• Antidepressant drugs (SSRI’s such as Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Paxil)
• Antacid drugs (H-2 blockers and PPI’s such as Nexium, Prilosec, and Zantac)
• Osteoporosis drugs (Bisphosphonates such as Fosomax and Actonel, Zometa, and Boniva)
• Diabetes drugs (Metformin, Avandia, Glucotrol, etc.)
• Anti-inflammatory drugs (Celebrex, Vioxx, Motrin, Naprosyn, etc)
• Synthetic Hormones (Provera and Estrogen)
SALT YOUR WAY TO HEALTH. 2 nd Edition
Dr. Brownstein dispels many of the myths of salt—salt is bad for you, salt causes hypertension.
These are just a few of the myths Dr. Brownstein tackles in this book. He shows you how the right
kind of salt—unrefined salt—can have a remarkable health benefit to the body. Refined salt is a
toxic, devitalized substance for the body. Unrefined salt is a necessary ingredient for achieving your
optimal health. See how adding unrefined salt to your diet can help you:
• Maintain a normal blood pressure
• Balance your hormones
• Optimize your immune system
• Lower your risk for heart disease
• Overcome chronic il lness
THE MIRACLE OF NATURAL HORMONES. 3 ^ EDITION
Optimal health cannot be achieved with an imbalanced hormonal system. Dr. Brownstein’s research
on bioidentical hormones provides the reader with a plethora of information on the benefits of
balancing the hormonal system with bioidentical, natural hormones. This book is in its third edition.
This book gives actual case studies of the benefits of natural hormones.
See how balancing the hormonal system can help:
• Arthritis and autoimmune disorders
• Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
• Heart disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Menopausal symptoms
• And much more!
OVERCOMING THYROID DISORDERS. 3 rd Edition
This book provides new insight into why thyroid disorders are frequently undiagnosed and how best
to treat them. The holistic treatment plan outlined in this book will show you how safe and natural
remedies can help improve your thyroid function and help you achieve your optimal health. NEW
SECOND EDITION!
• Detoxification
• Diet
• Graves’
• Hashimoto’s Disease
• Hypothyroidism
• And Much More!!
THE GUIDE TO HEALTHY EATING . 2 nd Edition
Which food do you buy? Where to shop? How do you prepare food? This book will answer all of
these questions and much more. Dr. Brownstein co-wrote this book with his nutritionist, Sheryl
Shenefelt, C.N. Eating the healthiest way is the most important thing you can do. This book contains
recipes and information on how best to feed your family. See how eating a healthier diet can help
you:
• Avoid chronic il lness
• Enhance your immune system
• Improve your family’s nutrition
THE GUIDE TO A GLUTEN-FREE DIET. 2 nd Edition
What would you say if 16% of the population (1/6) had a serious, life-threatening illness that was
being diagnosed correctly only 3% of the time? Gluten-sensitivity is the most frequently missed
diagnosis in the U.S. This book will show how you can incorporate a healthier lifestyle by becoming
gluten-free.
• Why you should become gluten-free
• What illnesses are associated with gluten sensitivity
• How to shop and cook gluten-free
• Where to find gluten-free resources
THE GUIDE TO A DAIRY-FREE DIET
This book will show you why dairy is not a healthy food. Dr. Brownstein and Sheryl Shenefelt, CCN,
will provide you the information you need to become dairy free. This book will dispel the myth that
dairy from pasteurized milk is a healthy food choice. In fact, it is a devitalized food source which
needs to be avoided.
Read this book to see why common dairy foods including milk cause:
• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• Allergies
• Asthma
• A Poor Immune System
THE SOY DECEPTION
This book will dispel the myth that soy is a healthy food. Soy ingestion can cause a myriad of severe
health issues. More information can be found online at: www.thesoydeception.com . Read this book
to see why soy can cause:
• Allergies
• Cancer
• Osteoporosis
• Thyroid Disorders
• A Poor Immune System
• And, Much More!
DVD’s of Dr. Brownstein’s Latest Lectures Now Available!
DVD: Iodine-The Most Misunderstood Nutrient
DVD: Overcoming Thyroid Disorders
DVD: Drugs That Don’t Work and Natural Therapies That Do
DVD: Holistic Medicine for the 21 st Century
DVD: Salt Your Way to Health
DVD: The Miracle of Natural Hormones
DVD: The Soy Deception
DVD: The Guide to a Gluten-Free Diet
DVD: The Guide to Healthy Eating
For More Information, Please Go To: www.drbrownstein.com
Call 1-888-647-5616 or send a check or money order
BOOKS $18 each!
Sales Tax: For Michigan residents, please add $1.08 per book.
Shipping: 1-3 Books: $5.00
4-6 Books: $4.00
7-9 Books: $3.00
Order 10 or more books: FREE SHIPPING!
VOLUME DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE. CALL 1-888-647-5616 FOR MORE
DVD’s of Dr. Brownstein’s Lectures
Available! DVD’s: $25.00 each
INFORMATION OR ORDER ON-LINE AT:
WWW.DRBROWNSTEIN.COM
You can send a check to: Medical Alternatives Press
4173 Fieldbrook
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
r
David Brownstein , M.D.
is a Board’Certified family practitioner who utilizes the
best of conventional os well os holistic medicine.
Dr. Brown stein has authored eleven boohs including:
* Drugs That Don't Work and Natural Therapies That Do
* Overcoming Arthritis
* Overcoming Thyroid Disorders
* Salt Your Way to Health
■ The Guide to o Dairy-Free Diet
* The Guide to a Gluten-Free Diet
* The Guide to Healthy Eating
* The Miracle of Natural Hormones
* The Soy Deception
* Vitamin B-12 for Health
Iodine is the most misunderstood nutrient.
After 20 years of practicing medicine, I can say fiat it Is impossible to
achieve your optimal health if you da not have adequate iodine levels,
I have yet to see any item that is more important to promoting health
or optimizing the Function of the immune system than iodine.
Learn what forms of iodine you need and why there is not enough iodine
in salt. See how iodine can help: breast cancer, fibrocystic breast disease,
detoxification, fatigue. Groves'’ disease, and Hashimoto's disease. Find out
why iodine deficiency may be the root cause of thyroid problems including
hypothyroidism and thyroid cancer Discover how to get iodine in your diet
and improve your immune system.
Dr. Brownstein is the Medical Director of the
Center for Holistic Medicine tn West Bloomfield, Michigon.
Visit www.drbr0wn5tein.com to learn more.
IAAn 9rA-Q-vtbdAe.2-i.-6
D966 0
3B236
5 18 0 0
9
Live Music
Archive
Librivox
Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland
Museum of Art
Internet
Arcade
Console Living Room
Open Library
American
Libraries
TV News
Understanding
9/11